Periquito Frentirrufo
Rufous-fronted Parakeet
Bolborhynchus ferrugineifrons
Song
Rufous-fronted Parakeet
Appearance: The Rufous-fronted Parakeet is a small to medium-sized parakeet, measuring 20 cm in length. It has vibrant green plumage, but the most distinguishing feature is the reddish-orange forehead and a blue band around the eyes. The wings have a slightly darker green coloration with some blue-green feathers. The beak is short and robust, typically orange or yellowish.
Habitat: This species is found in subtropical and tropical moist forests, particularly in areas with dense vegetation. They inhabit lowland rainforests and forest edges at elevations between 3,200 and 4,100 m. They are found in secondary growth and agricultural areas.
Behavior: The Rufous-fronted Parakeet is a highly social bird, often seen in flocks that can range from a few individuals to larger groups. They are known for their playful nature, frequently engaging in acrobatic displays among the branches. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, seeds, and flowers, and they forage in trees, using their strong beaks to access food.
Breeding: Breeding occurs during the rainy season. They nest in tree cavities, where the female lays 3-5 eggs. Both parents share the responsibilities of incubating the eggs for about 21-24 days and caring for the young. The fledging period lasts approximately 6-8 weeks, during which both parents feed the chicks.
Conservation Status: The Rufous-fronted Parakeet is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Distribution
Andean Region: Departments: Antioquia, Caldas, Quindío, Risaralda, Tolima, and Valle del Cauca. Commonly found in subtropical and tropical moist forests in areas with coffee plantations and montane forests.
Taxonomy
The Periquito Frentirrufo (Bolborhynchus ferrugineifrons)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Psittaciformes
- Family: Psittacidae
- Genus: Bolborhynchus
- Species: Bolborhynchus ferrugineifrons
Vocalization
Communication: These parakeets often move in flocks, and vocalizations help maintain group cohesion, allowing members to stay connected while foraging or navigating through their habitat. Calls are used to facilitate social interactions among flock members, enhancing social bonds and group dynamics.
Mating Calls: During the breeding season, males produce specific calls to attract females. These vocalizations can signal the male’s health and strength, playing a critical role in mate selection and courtship rituals.
Territorial Signaling: While not strongly territorial, vocalizations can be used to assert dominance or deter rivals. This is particularly important in areas with overlapping ranges, ensuring that individual parakeets can establish their place within a mixed flock.
Alarm Calls: When they perceive danger, such as the presence of predators, Rufous-fronted Parakeets emit alarm calls. This serves to alert other flock members, facilitating immediate evasive action to enhance group survival.
Parent-Young Interaction: Vocalizations also play a crucial role in interactions between parents and their chicks. Calls help parents guide and feed their young, ensuring close communication during the vulnerable fledgling stage.
