Parakeet is a name for any one of a large number of unrelated small to medium sized species of parrot, that generally have long tail feathers. Parakeets breed better in groups, but are usually fine breeding in pairs. Hearing other parakeets encourages a pair to breed, which is why breeding in groups is more successful. However, many breeders choose to breed in pairs because that way they know which parents produced any given birds.
Macaws are long-tailed, often colorful New World parrots. Macaws are native to Mexico, Central America, South America, and formerly the Caribbean. Most species are associated with forests, especially rainforests, but others prefer woodland or savannah-like habitats. Proportionately larger beaks, long tails, and relatively bare, light-colored, medial areas distinguish macaws. A macaws facial feather pattern is as unique as a fingerprint.