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Photo: © Bradley Hacker eBird S39026514 Macaulay Library ML 68172941
tui-parakeet

Tui Parakeet

Brotogeris sanctithomae
Periquito Cabeciamarillo
map-colombia-tui-parakeet
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Song

Tui Parakeet

Appearance: Tui Parakeet, commonly known as the Budgerigar, is a small parakeet that  measures about 18 cm in length. They are green with black barring on their wings and a yellow face, which may have variations of blue or white depending on the genetic mutations. Their beak is short and curved, often yellow, and the tail is long and pointed.

Habitat: The Tui Parakeet is native to Australia and is now widely distributed due to captivity breeding. In the wild, they inhabit various environments, open grasslands, woodlands, and scrublands, favoring areas with plenty of seeds and water sources.
Behavior: Budgerigars are highly social birds that often live in large flocks. They are known for their playful and curious nature, engaging in acrobatic feats while interacting with each other. They are also vocal, with a wide range of chirps and whistles. Their social dynamics play a crucial role in their daily activities, including foraging and grooming.
Breeding: They are seasonal breeders, typically nesting in tree hollows or other concealed locations. The female lays 5-9 eggs, which she incubates for about 18 days. Both parents help feed and care for the chicks, which fledge around 4-6 weeks after hatching.

Conservation Status: In the wild, Tui Parakeets are considered Least Concern by the IUCN.

Distribution

Amazon Region: Departments: Amazonas, Caquetá. Occasional sightings in urban areas or as escapees from captivity, particularly in locations with gardens and agricultural lands.

Taxonomy

The Tui Parakeet (Brotogeris sanctithomae)
  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Aves (Birds)
  • Order: Psittaciformes
  • Family: Psittacidae
  • Genus: Brotogeris
  • Species: Brotogeris sanctithomae

Vocalization

Characteristics of Vocalization: Budgerigars produce a wide range of sounds, including chirps, whistles, and short melodic phrases. Their vocalizations can vary  based on their mood, social context, or interaction with other birds.

Chirping and Whistling: Their basic calls consist of high-pitched chirps that can be rhythmic or sporadic. They are particularly vocal during social interactions, often engaging in playful "conversations" within flocks.
Mimicry: Budgerigars are skilled mimics and can imitate sounds from their environment, including human voices and household noises, especially if exposed to them regularly.

Communication: Vocalizations serve essential communication needs within flocks, helping maintain social dynamics and coordination, especially during foraging or movement.
Mating Calls: During breeding seasons, males may produce specific calls to attract females, showcasing their health and vitality.
Alert Calls: In the presence of potential threats, budgerigars emit alarm calls to alert other flock members, facilitating a quick response to dangers.

Parent-Young Communication: Vocalizations are essential in parent-offspring interactions, guiding and encouraging young birds.