Spectacled Parrotlet

The Spectacled Parrotlet, Forpus conspicillatus, is a diminutive parrot species, typically measuring a mere 12 centimeters in length and tipping the scales at approximately 30 grams. These birds are predominantly green, with the males distinguished by a striking blue eye-ring and additional blue on their lower back, rump, and wings. Females, on the other hand, lack the blue and instead boast an emerald ring around their eyes. Both sexes share the characteristic zygodactyl feet, with two toes pointing forward and two backward.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Spectacled Parrotlet, look for the male's vivid blue markings around the eyes and on the wings, while noting the female's lack of blue and the presence of an emerald eye-ring. Their gray-green breast and underparts contrast with a brighter green head. The beak and feet are a light peach color, and their eyes are dark brown.

Habitat

These parrotlets favor the edges of lowland evergreen forests, thorn scrubs, llanos, gallery woodlands, and areas of heavily degraded former forest or low-density woodland. They thrive in open habitats and are not found at altitudes exceeding 1,600 meters above sea level.

Distribution

Endemic to Middle and South America, the Spectacled Parrotlet can be found in northern and central Colombia, Venezuela, and eastern Panama. Three subspecies are recognized, each with a distinct geographical range within Colombia and Venezuela.

Behaviour

Spectacled Parrotlets are highly social, often seen in small flocks, though they may gather in large groups at clay mounds to consume minerals. They exhibit monogamous pair bonds, with some pairs potentially mating for life. The male's role includes guarding the nest and providing for the female and chicks, while the female is responsible for incubating the eggs.

Song & Calls

These parrotlets are known for their ability to adapt calls when interacting with specific individuals, effectively using vocalizations as "names." Their calls vary from tweets and chirps to buzzing sounds, depending on the context of the communication.

Breeding

Breeding season typically occurs between January and March. Nesting takes place in tree cavities or similar structures, with the female laying eggs every two days until the clutch is complete, usually comprising 4-6 eggs. After an 18-day incubation period, the chicks hatch and fledge at about five weeks old.

Similar Species

While there are no similar species that could be easily confused with the Spectacled Parrotlet, it is important to note the subtle differences between the subspecies, such as the paler blue markings of the Cauca Spectacled Parrotlet males and the extended blue rings of the Venezuelan Spectacled Parrotlet males.

Diet and Feeding

In their natural habitat, Spectacled Parrotlets consume a diet of seeds, nuts, leaves, berries, cactus, Tamarindus sp., and other fruits. They may also eat small insects and are known to partake in geophagy at clay licks to supplement their mineral intake.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Spectacled Parrotlet as Least Concern, with stable or possibly increasing populations due to their preference for open habitats, which are becoming more prevalent due to deforestation and land development. They are well-represented in protected areas across their range.