Olive-throated Parakeet

The Olive-throated Parakeet, known scientifically as Eupsittula nana, is a vibrant bird belonging to the Psittacidae family. This species exhibits a predominantly dark green plumage with a distinctive olive-brown throat and breast, transitioning to olive on the belly and vent. The bird's wings are green with a hint of dull blue on the upper side of the flight feathers and a gray underside. The tail is green above and yellowish below. Adults have a brownish horn-colored bill with a paler tip, yellow to orange irises, and blackish-gray legs. Both sexes appear similar, and immature birds closely resemble the adults in coloration.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Olive-throated Parakeet, look for the yellowish ear coverts and rump, as well as the bare white skin surrounding the eye. The bird measures between 22 to 26 cm in length and weighs approximately 72 to 85 grams. The subspecies E. n. astec is slightly paler in the underparts, while E. n. vicinalis is larger and brighter green above.

Habitat

This parakeet favors deciduous woodlands but is also found in humid forests, riparian zones, scrublands, and open areas such as plantations and gardens. It is known to inhabit pine stands and can be found at elevations up to 1,500 meters in Jamaica and lower in other regions.

Distribution

The Olive-throated Parakeet has two disjunct populations: the nominate subspecies E. n. nana in Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, and subspecies E. n. vicinalis and E. n. astec from northeastern Mexico to western Panama.

Behaviour

The Olive-throated Parakeet exhibits movements between moist and drier habitats in response to food availability. Generally considered year-round residents, these birds form flocks, which can number 50 or more individuals. They are known to be crop pests in some regions, feeding on maize, corn, and cultivated fruits.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the Olive-throated Parakeet are characterized by sharp, grating "krik-krik-krik-krik" or raucous "krrieh krrie krreah" calls, with little variation among the subspecies.

Breeding

Breeding occurs at different times depending on the region, with nests typically found in cavities within termitaria. The clutch size ranges from three to five eggs, but details on incubation and parental care are not well documented.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Olive-throated Parakeet is primarily composed of fig fruits, supplemented by other fruits, leaves, and flowers. Flocks are often observed feeding on these food sources.

Conservation status

The IUCN classifies the Jamaican population as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and fragmentation, while the "Aztec" population is considered Least Concern. The species is listed in CITES Appendix II, indicating that it is not currently threatened with extinction but may become so without trade controls.