PARRARKEETS. 437 
for its aversion to children. This peculiarity doubtless arises from 
the fact that it is very jealous, and that it often sees children 
receive the caresses of its mistress. ‘The Macaws have only the gift 
of imitation in a slight degree ; they are seldom able to repeat any 
words, and articulate badly. 
Parrakeets, much smaller than Macaws, have, like them, long 
Fig. 165.—Rose Hill Parrakeet. 
and tapering tails, but their cheeks are wholly or partially feathered. 
Some species, which resemble the preceding group by being more 
or less destitute of plumage round the eyes, for this reason have 
received the name of Macaw-parrakeets. Parrakeets are highly 
esteemed for their vivacity, gentleness, and the facility with which 
they learn to talk. Their plumage is generally of a uniform green ; 
sometimes it is varied with red or blue. They inhabit South 
America, Australia, the islands of Oceania, the Indies, Africa, and 
Senegal, one of the most beautiful of the family being the Rose Hill 
