One thing that I've learned about raising birds, is offering a variety of foods. Offer fresh veggies, fruits, grains, etc. it helps keeps things interesting, plus it's great having birds that eat a variety of foods.
I would also suggest veering away from coloured pellets. I do feed them to jack (will be switching to naturals once the bag is lower) but i ensure they are not the largest part of his diet. he mainly eats mash, which is either one i made myself, or beak appetit. I, like kristen, offer seeds as well, but only in his foraging toys or training.
Definitely check out the sticky thread in the diet section.
As for choosing a male or female, I'd say there is no real reason to choose one over the other. Both can make wonderful pets, and both can be nippy little toads. I think that sex does not determine temperment. Socialization has a key role. I would definitely get a baby from a breeder who socializes and handles their babies on a daily basis. As suggested, go and meet them, hold them and let yourself be picked. And don't be afraid to walk away if none seem to click with you. I did it, and I don't regret not getting one. The Parrotlet I ended up getting was worth the walking away i did the first time.
Oh, it's been said that males are more likely to talk then females, but not all males talk. I believe Jack was born in may and i've had him since september and thus far no words. THough he does mimic me when i say peep peep. lol.
