Plain Parakeet

The Plain Parakeet, a bird of vibrant verdure, measures a modest 23 to 25 centimeters in length and tips the scales at approximately 63 grams. This avian is cloaked in a predominantly green plumage, with a subtle bluish hue adorning the nape and a gentle yellowish wash on the underside. A bronzy or brownish green marks the shoulder, while the flight feathers and the tail's underside boast a bluish green. The bill presents a pinkish hue, fading to a paler tone at the base. Juveniles mirror the adults but display less blue in the wings and possess a shorter tail. A curious blue mutation is noted among individuals in the São Paulo state population.

Identification Tips

To identify the Plain Parakeet, look for its all-green body with a bluish tinge on the nape and a yellowish underside. The bronzy or brownish green shoulder, bluish green flight feathers, and pinkish bill are also key characteristics. Juveniles are similar but have less blue in the wings and a shorter tail.

Habitat

The Plain Parakeet thrives in the Atlantic Forest biome, favoring secondary forests, cultivated lands with tree groves, plantations, and urban parks. It is a common sight in cities, including the sprawling metropolises of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The species also ventures into montane rainforest edges and canopies at higher elevations inland.

Distribution

Endemic to Brazil, the Plain Parakeet's range extends from Alagoas in the north, down to Santa Catarina, with an isolated population in Rio Grande do Sul. It is predominantly a lowland bird but can be found at elevations up to 1,200 meters.

Behaviour

Local seasonal movements are noted within the Plain Parakeet population, though the specifics of these movements remain somewhat enigmatic.

Song & calls

The vocal repertoire of the Plain Parakeet includes a high-pitched shrill "cree" or a bisyllabic "cra-creep," as well as a lower-pitched, harsh-sounding "cra-cra-cra." These calls are emitted both from perches and in flight, often with flock members joining in a cacophonous chorus.

Breeding

The breeding season for the Plain Parakeet is postulated to span from September to December, though it may commence earlier and conclude later. They nest in tree cavities, and in captivity, a clutch typically consists of four eggs. Incubation lasts about 26 days, with fledglings taking to the wing seven weeks post-hatching.

Diet and Feeding

A diverse diet sustains the Plain Parakeet, including seeds, fruits, flowers, and nectar from a plethora of plant species. It also partakes in adult and larval insects.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Plain Parakeet as Least Concern. Despite its somewhat restricted range and unknown population size, the species is believed to be stable with no immediate threats looming. It exhibits a remarkable tolerance to environmental changes and is present in numerous protected areas.