Blue-winged Parakeet

The Blue-winged Parakeet, also known as the Malabar Parakeet, is a captivating bird with a bluish-grey plumage. It boasts a long, elegant tail tipped in yellow, and its dark wings are adorned with a striking blue hue. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with the male's upper mandible a vivid red with a white tip, and the female's bill entirely black.

Identification Tips

To identify the Blue-winged Parakeet, look for the complete black neck ring present in both sexes. The male is distinguished by a bluish-green lower edge to the black collar. In contrast, the female resembles the female Plum-headed Parakeet but lacks the broad yellow collar of the latter. When in flight, their screeching 'keek-keek-keek' calls are a reliable indicator of their presence.

Habitat

This parakeet is a denizen of the Western Ghats, favoring the forest clearings within this biodiverse region.

Distribution

The Blue-winged Parakeet is endemic to the Western Ghats of southern India, ranging from north of Bombay (around 19°N) down to Kerala. Its range extends into the Palni and Nilgiri hills and the adjoining Eastern Ghats, including the Biligirirangan range and possibly the Kolli Hills.

Behaviour

These parakeets are gregarious, often seen in small flocks. They exhibit rapid flight through the forest clearings and are known for their distinctive calls. During the breeding season, they nest in tree holes, including those previously used by woodpeckers and barbets.

Breeding

Breeding occurs after the northeast Monsoon in the dry season, with chicks fledging before the onset of the southwest Monsoon in June. Nesting begins in December, with eggs laid in December and January. A typical clutch consists of four eggs, which hatch after approximately 23 days. Both parents share in feeding and brooding duties until the chicks are ready to leave the nest after about a month.

Diet and Feeding

These parakeets have been observed feeding on the leaves of Loranthus longiflorus, among other food sources.

Conservation status

The Blue-winged Parakeet is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population. However, illegal trade within India has been a concern, as the species was once popular in the pet trade under the name "Bababudan Parrot."