The authoritative information and advice you need, illustrated throughout with full-color photographs--now revised and redesigned to be even more reader-friendly!Whoever coined the term "birdbrained" wasn't familiar with parakeets. They're smart as well as funny and entertaining. This guide helps you with everything from preparing for and choosing a parakeet to teaching it to talk and perform tricks. It covers:* Details on setting up a healthy home for your pet* Everyday care, including feeding and grooming* Veterinary care and common health problems* Normal parakeet behaviors* Parakeets and childrenParakeets can live up to eighteen years. That's a lot of companionship from a colorful little character who will undoubtedly find a perch in your heart.