Pacific Parakeet

The Pacific parakeet, or Psittacara strenuus, is a vibrant bird approximately 32 cm in length. Both sexes share a similar plumage, predominantly olive green with a slightly yellowish tinge on the underparts. Some individuals may exhibit red speckles on their necks. The undersides of their flight feathers and tail boast an olive-yellow coloration. These parakeets have an orange-red iris encircled by a ring of bare pale beige skin, a horn-colored bill, and legs and feet of a brownish hue.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Pacific parakeet, look for its general olive green coloration and the yellowish tint on the underparts. The presence of red speckles on the neck can be a distinguishing feature, though not all individuals have them. The orange-red iris and the pale beige eye-ring are also characteristic of this species.

Habitat

The Pacific parakeet is known to inhabit a variety of woodland landscapes, including deciduous, semi-deciduous, evergreen, gallery forest, swamp forest, and arid scrublands. It is also found in upland pine-oak forests and adapts well to urban environments, frequenting parks and gardens.

Distribution

This species is found along the Pacific slope, ranging from southern Mexico's Oaxaca state through Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and into central Nicaragua. It can be observed from sea level up to elevations of 2,600 meters.

Behaviour

The Pacific parakeet is a non-migratory bird, although it may make local movements in search of food. It is known to form flocks, sometimes numbering over 100 individuals, and can be a pest to crops due to its feeding habits.

Song & Calls

The flight call of the Pacific parakeet is a repetitive "kreh!-kreh!-kreh!-kreh!…", while its perched call is a lower-pitched, scratchy "kreeh-kreeh-kreeh-kreei-kreei".

Breeding

Details on the breeding biology of the Pacific parakeet are sparse. However, it has been observed nesting in rock crevices and earthen bank cavities, and it is likely to also use tree and termite mound cavities. The breeding season is thought to span from June to September.

Diet and Feeding

While the full extent of the Pacific parakeet's diet is not thoroughly documented, it is known to consume seeds and fruits. Its feeding habits can lead to conflicts with agriculture, as it sometimes feeds on crops.

Conservation status

The IUCN, following HBW taxonomy, includes the Pacific parakeet in its assessment of the green parakeet, listing it as Least Concern. The population is estimated at around 200,000 mature individuals and is on a declining trend. However, no immediate threats have been identified, and the species is considered fairly numerous in parts of its range, with occurrences in at least two protected areas.