Painted Parakeet

The Painted Parakeet, or Painted Conure in aviculture, is a diminutive and vibrant bird, measuring a modest 20 to 23 centimeters in length. It boasts a striking plumage with a blue to deep maroon gradient from the forehead to the hindcrown and nape, complemented by a narrow blue collar. The face is adorned with maroon, encircled by a ring of bare grayish skin around the eye, and set off by whitish ear coverts. The bird's upperparts are predominantly green, accented with a dull red lower back and rump. A buff breast with a reddish-brown scalloped pattern and a dull red belly center, transitioning to green underparts, complete the ensemble. The wings are mainly green with a red carpal area and blue primaries, while the tail is mostly maroon with a green base. The iris is a dark, enigmatic hue.

Identification Tips

To identify the Painted Parakeet, look for its blue to maroon gradient on the head, narrow blue collar, and maroon face with a grayish eye ring. The bird's green upperparts with red accents, buff and reddish-brown scalloped breast, and green underparts are also distinctive. The red carpal area and blue primaries on the wing, along with the maroon tail with a green base, are key features. The dark iris is another identifying characteristic.

Habitat

The Painted Parakeet is known to inhabit a variety of environments, including terra firme and várzea forests, forested savannas, and coastal sand-ridge forests. It is typically found in lowland areas but can also be seen at elevations as high as 1,800 meters.

Distribution

This species is distributed across several South American countries, including Brazil, Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Panama, Suriname, and Venezuela. Its range varies among the subspecies, with each favoring different geographical areas.

Behaviour

The Painted Parakeet is a sociable bird, often seen foraging in flocks of up to 30 individuals. While its movement patterns are not well-documented, some subspecies may exhibit small elevational migrations.

Song & calls

The Painted Parakeet's vocal repertoire includes a series of high-pitched, yelping notes, as well as more rolling and subdued sounds. Flocks in flight produce a cacophony of noisy, harsh, and piercing chattering, while perched birds may also emit a harsh, guttural "kleek-kleek."

Breeding

The breeding biology of the Painted Parakeet remains largely a mystery. However, it is known to nest in tree cavities and lay clutches of four or five eggs in captivity. Breeding seasons vary among the subspecies and geographical locations.

Similar Species

The Painted Parakeet can be confused with other Pyrrhura species, but its unique coloration and vocalizations help distinguish it from its congeners.

Diet and Feeding

This parakeet has a diverse diet, feeding on fruits, seeds, and flowers from a wide array of plants and trees.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Painted Parakeet as Least Concern, although the population is believed to be decreasing. However, some subspecies face more severe threats, with the "Perija" parakeet listed as Endangered, the "Sinu" parakeet as Critically Endangered (Possibly Extinct), and the "Azuero" parakeet as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and capture for the pet trade.