Nanday Parakeet

The Nanday Parakeet, also known as the Black-hooded Parakeet or Nanday Conure, is a medium-small parrot, resplendent in its mostly green plumage. It measures between 27 to 30 centimeters in length and weighs approximately 140 grams. The bird is instantly recognizable by its striking black facial mask and beak, a feature that has inspired its name. Its wings boast black, trailing flight feathers, and its long tail is elegantly edged with blue. The upper chest of this parrot is a bluish-green, transitioning to a paler green on the lower chest, while red feathers adorn the thighs.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Nanday Parakeet, look for its distinctive black mask and beak, which contrast sharply with its vibrant green body. The trailing edges of the wings are black, and the tail is long with a blue tip. The bird's upper chest is bluish-green, and the lower chest is paler. Red feathers on the thighs are another key characteristic to observe.

Habitat

In the wild, Nanday Parakeets are found in scrub forests and forest clearings, often near human settlements. They are also known to inhabit open savannahs, pastures, and stockyards, where they can sometimes be considered pests.

Distribution

This species is native to South America, with its range extending from southeast Bolivia to southwest Brazil, central Paraguay, and northern Argentina, particularly in the Pantanal region. Escaped or released caged birds have established self-sustaining populations in various locations, including Tenerife and several areas in the United States such as Los Angeles, San Antonio, and Florida.

Behaviour

Nanday Parakeets are social birds that form large communal roosts outside of the breeding season. They are known to feed on a variety of seeds, fruits, palm nuts, berries, flowers, and buds. In urban environments, they may also visit bird feeders.

Breeding

During the breeding season, these parakeets typically nest in tree cavities. Females lay clutches of three to four eggs, and after the young are raised, the birds regroup into communal roosts.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Nanday Parakeet consists of seeds, fruits, palm nuts, berries, flowers, and buds. They are known to adapt to available food sources in their environment, including visiting bird feeders in urban areas.

Conservation status

The Nanday Parakeet is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline or extinction.