Saffron-headed Parrot

The Saffron-headed Parrot, Pyrilia pyrilia, is a small, vibrant bird, measuring between 22 to 24 centimeters in length. It boasts a predominantly yellow head and neck, with a distinctive ring of bare white skin encircling the eye. Surrounding this are brown feathers, with a red wash located just behind the eye. The breast is an olive hue, which extends as a slender line around the back of the neck. The body is primarily green, accented with yellow shoulders, red carpals, and flanks, and yellow on the lower thighs. The primaries exhibit a blackish color, while the tail feathers are tipped with a dusky blue. Juveniles are distinguishable by their green heads, shoulders, and carpals.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Saffron-headed Parrot, look for the striking yellow head and neck, the white eye-ring, and the red wash behind the eye. The olive breast and the green body with yellow and red accents are also key characteristics. The bird's size and the coloration of the primaries and tail feathers can aid in identification as well.

Habitat

This species inhabits the interiors and edges of humid to wet forests, both primary and secondary, typically at elevations below 900 meters. It can also be found in cloud forests up to 1,650 meters, although this may be a seasonal occurrence.

Distribution

The Saffron-headed Parrot is native to eastern Panama's Darién Province, north and central Colombia, and northwestern Venezuela. There are no confirmed records of this species in Ecuador.

Behaviour

The Saffron-headed Parrot is mostly sedentary, though it may exhibit seasonal elevational movements and some degree of nomadic roaming.

Song & Calls

The most common vocalizations of the Saffron-headed Parrot are a shrieking "cureek" or "queek," which can be heard from both perched and flying birds. Additionally, it emits piercing, hoarse-sounding calls while perched.

Breeding

Breeding season for the Saffron-headed Parrot occurs from March to June in Colombia. Further details on its breeding biology remain unknown.

Conservation Status

The IUCN has classified the Saffron-headed Parrot as Near Threatened. With an estimated population of fewer than 20,000 mature individuals, the species is experiencing a decline. The primary threats include habitat loss and degradation, capture for the pet trade, and hunting for food. While some of its habitat falls within protected areas, much of it lies outside, in regions desirable for agriculture and human settlement.