The Parrot Tarot represents a modern and vibrant interpretation of traditional tarot, designed to bring positivity, joy, and a connection to nature into the practice of divination. Created through a collaboration between artist Margaret Parrott and tarot writer Thom Parrott, this deck moves away from the darker, medieval imagery often associated with older tarot traditions. Instead, it utilizes the intelligence, mimicry, and bright plumage of tropical parrots and exotic birds to symbolize communication, truth, and expression. These qualities align seamlessly with the purpose of tarot: to convey insight, guidance, and self-reflection. The deck is described as a "fresh and friendly interpretation," making it ideal for readers and questioners seeking a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere during sessions. It is viewed as a worthy addition for any tarot collector, particularly those who prefer uplifting art that radiates positivity rather than shadow or gloom.
The deck follows the structure of the traditional Rider–Waite–Smith system but adds layers of avian symbolism. It consists of 82 cards, including the standard 22 Major Arcana and 60 Minor Arcana cards. The suits are Cups, Swords, Wands, and Pentacles, with a unique set of Court Cards consisting of Princess, Prince, Mentor, Queen, and King. The deck features a "mascot" parrot in the lower right corner of each card, whose demeanor often reflects the card's meaning, sometimes in a humorous way. The Major Arcana frequently depicts parrots interacting with celestial or elemental energies, while the borders of the cards contain a wealth of correspondences. This self-published deck by Thom Parrott is considered a mixed tradition deck, with the Fool numbered 0, Strength as 8, and Justice as 11.
Specific Card Interpretations and Symbolism
The Parrot Tarot reimagines traditional archetypes through the lens of avian imagery, emphasizing themes of freedom, higher awareness, and transformation. The art tends to be uplifting, making it a favorite among readers who prefer decks that radiate positivity rather than shadow or gloom.
The Fool – The First Flight In the Parrot Tarot, The Fool is depicted as a young parrot perched on the edge of a high branch, wings open, gazing at the sunrise. Beneath lies a lush tropical valley filled with life, with a small butterfly or feather floating nearby, symbolizing guidance from spirit. This imagery represents new beginnings, trust, and adventure. The parrot, just about to take its first flight, serves as a reminder that courage often requires stepping into the unknown. The vivid colors suggest optimism and freedom of spirit. When reversed, this card indicates fear of change, hesitation, or being too reckless—forgetting to look before leaping. A reversed Fool can also warn of "mimicking others" rather than following one's own inner call.
The Magician – Voice of Creation The Magician is represented by a majestic macaw standing in the center of a swirling canopy. It is surrounded by tools symbolizing the four elements: a feather quill (air), a crystal (earth), a flame (fire), and a cup of nectar (water). Its beak is open mid-call, projecting sound waves through the air. This card represents the Magician Parrot channeling willpower and communication.
Death – Transformation and Reneweal The Death card in the Parrot Tarot features a parrot in the background, with other birds flying across the horizon, symbolizing transformation and rebirth. The card represents transformation, renewal, and release. Just as a parrot must shed old feathers to fly stronger, individuals must let go of what no longer serves them. Change may seem uncomfortable, but it brings rebirth and freedom. When reversed, this card indicates resistance to change, stagnation, or fear of transformation, serving as a warning to stop clinging to what must be released.
The Sun – The Joyful Flight The Sun card depicts a brilliant golden parrot soaring across a radiant sunlit sky, surrounded by tropical flowers and butterflies. The world below is alive with light and growth. This card embodies happiness, success, clarity, and celebration. It reminds the querent to express themselves fully and bask in their own brilliance, asserting that one's true colors are their strength. When reversed, it indicates temporary gloom, doubt, or burnout, suggesting that the light is still there but may be obscured by worry or overwork.
The World – Circle of Feathers The World card features a great ring of feathers encircling a radiant parrot perched in the centre, symbolizing unity and completion. Around it are elements of earth, air, fire, and water, indicating balance achieved. The meaning of this card is wholeness, fulfillment, and achievement. The Parrot Tarot’s World card reminds the querent that they are both the singer and the song—the journey has come full circle. Spiritually, it reflects ascension and harmony with nature. When reversed, it indicates incomplete cycles or delays in reaching a goal, calling for the integration of all lessons before moving forward.
Energetic Frequencies and Parrot Symbolism
While the Parrot Tarot deck focuses on traditional card structures, a separate exploration of parrot symbolism suggests that different parrots vibrate at specific energetic frequencies. This concept, found in a more playful and anecdotal source, suggests that the energy of a parrot in one's life can resonate with specific attributes. It is important to note that this source views this as a fun exercise in symbolism rather than a formal tarot system.
Amazon, Parrotlet & African Grey Energies According to this symbolic interpretation, Amazon parrots represent "Bonded Performers." Their characteristics are described as bonded, protective, and emotionally intelligent. Their behavior involves curiosity, developing emotional connectivity, and a heart-oriented approach. They are known to sing, learn tricks well, and want to form a strong bond with their one mate. The energy associated with having an Amazon parrot in one's life is Communication and Relationship. This suggests one may be looking for a deeper or more connected relationship in life, or currently enjoying one.
Holistic Application
The Parrot Tarot is designed to combine the spiritual traditions of tarot with the vivid vitality of the natural world. It serves as a tool for intuitive readings and lightwork, bringing forward a sense of joy, renewal, and connection to nature. The deck's emphasis on communication and expression aligns with the broader goals of holistic energy balancing, where clear expression and emotional release are vital for harmony. By using uplifting imagery and a connection to the natural world, the deck aims to make the process of seeking insight a positive and constructive experience.
Conclusion
The Parrot Tarot offers a distinct and modern approach to tarot divination, distinguishing itself through bright, nature-inspired artwork and a focus on positive, uplifting themes. By replacing traditional medieval imagery with the vibrant symbolism of parrots and tropical birds, it emphasizes communication, freedom, and expression. The deck maintains the structural integrity of the Rider–Waite–Smith system while introducing unique elements such as additional court cards and specific avian interpretations for Major Arcana cards. Whether focusing on the specific journey of cards like The Fool or The World, or exploring the energetic symbolism of specific parrot types, this deck provides a tool for reflection that is accessible, friendly, and deeply connected to the beauty of the natural world.