Blue-fronted Parrotlet

The Blue-fronted Parrotlet, Touit dilectissimus, is a diminutive and vibrant bird, measuring approximately 17 to 18 cm in length and tipping the scales at 59 to 71 grams. Its plumage is predominantly a lush green, with a deeper hue adorning its dorsal side compared to the ventral. A striking blue adorns its forehead, while a white ring encircles its eye, complemented by a red line that extends both in front of and below the eye, with additional blue beneath. The crown and hindneck boast a bronze-green shade. Notably, the wing's "wrist" area is suffused with red, and the primaries are a stark black with green fringing the outer edges. The underwing coverts are a bright yellow, and while the central tail feathers are black, the others are yellow with black tips. Sexual dimorphism is evident, as males display more red on their wings compared to females, and the immature birds resemble females but with a less pronounced facial pattern.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Blue-fronted Parrotlet, look for the characteristic blue forehead, the red and blue facial markings, and the red on the wing's "wrist". The male's more extensive red wing markings can help differentiate between sexes. The bird's small size and green plumage may make it less conspicuous in its natural habitat.

Habitat

This species is known to inhabit cloudforests and mature secondary forests. It thrives in the lush canopies where it can blend seamlessly with the foliage.

Distribution

The Blue-fronted Parrotlet graces the skies from eastern Panama through the Pacific slope of Colombia and Ecuador, reaching as far as El Oro Province, and into the Andes and Serranía del Perijá of Venezuela.

Behaviour

These parrotlets are social creatures, often seen in small groups of up to 15. They exhibit a quiet demeanor while feeding or roosting, which can make them easy to overlook. However, their presence is unmistakable when they take flight, as they become quite vocal and animated.

Song & Calls

The Blue-fronted Parrotlet communicates with a slightly nasal “chree” or a bisyllabic “chu-ree”. In flight, flocks call in unison, creating a continuous, noisy chattering. While perched, they also emit a soft churring “krr”.

Breeding

Breeding behavior has been observed in May and June in Panama, with the season in Colombia extending to include March but not well defined. Nests have been discovered in arboreal termite nests, with one documented case in Colombia situated about 7 meters above ground.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Blue-fronted Parrotlet is not thoroughly understood, but it is known to include small fruits. It has been observed feeding on the seeds of fruits from the Clusiaceae family.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Blue-fronted Parrotlet as Least Concern. Despite its large range, the exact population size is unknown but believed to be in decline. Currently, there are no immediate threats identified, and the species is considered relatively secure due to the abundance of its habitat and minimal involvement in trade.