What behavioral adaptation does a parrot have?

Answer 1

Parrots are characterised by their strong curved beaks which are specially shaped to enable parrots to crack open hard shells of large seeds or nuts. They have strong claws on their feet for gripping perches. Two of the toes face forwards and two face backwards. This gives them extra grip for climbing and it is one of the reasons why you will often see wild parrots in Australia hanging upside down on branches or swinging around telephone wires.

Many parrots fly erratically, rather than smoothly. This is to enable easier escape from Birds of Prey such as hawks and falcons. Gliding and hovering birds of prey find it difficult to catch a parrot flying erratically through the air.

Most parrots are brightly coloured, but this is not always the case.

Answer 2

Physical adaptations of parrots include:

• Strong, curved beaks. These beaks are especially shaped to enable parrots to crack open hard shells of large seeds or nuts.
• Some parrots have tongues which are hairy, enabling them to better lap up nectar of flowers.
• Parrots have strong claws on their feet for gripping perches. Two of the toes face forwards and two face backwards. This gives them extra grip for climbing.
• Like all flighted birds, parrots have hollow bones and wings for flight, and the right pectoral muscles to give them the necessary "lift".
• Parrots have an acute sense of both hearing and sight. This is vital for helping them to escape from predators.
• Parrots can blend in with the brightly coloured fruit and flowers around their habitat.