Perico Frentirrojo
Scarlet-fronted Parakeet
Psittacara wagleri
Song
Scarlet-fronted Parakeet
Appearance: These parakeets are medium-sized measuring about 32 to 37 cm (12.5 to 14.5 in) in length. They are green, with a distinctive bright red forehead and front part of the crown, which gives them their name. The red coloration may extend around the eyes and onto the lores. They have a long, tapered tail and a strong, hooked beak. Their eyes are surrounded by a white eye-ring, and they have pinkish legs and feet.
Habitat: The Scarlet-fronted Parakeet is found in various regions in the south of the country. They inhabit subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and montane forests. They are also found in open woodlands, savannas, and sometimes in agricultural areas or urban settings.
Behavior: These parakeets are highly social birds, often seen in flocks that can range from small groups to larger congregations, especially outside the breeding season. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, seeds, nuts, and berries. They are known to forage in trees and sometimes visit crops, which can lead to conflicts with farmers. They are noisy birds, known for their loud and harsh calls, which they use to communicate within flocks.
Breeding: The Scarlet-fronted Parakeet typically nests in tree cavities. They may also use holes in cliffs or even man-made structures if natural sites are scarce. The season coincides with the rainy season, which varies depending on the region. The female usually lays 3 to 4 eggs, which she incubates for about 23 to 26 days. Both parents participate in feeding and caring for the chicks after they hatch.
Conservation status: As of the latest assessments, the Scarlet-fronted Parakeet is listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Distribution
The Scarlet-fronted Parakeet is found in some regions of the Amazon region, Putumayo, and Caquetá.
Taxonomy
The Scarlet-fronted Parakeet (Psittacara wagleri)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Psittaciformes
- Family: Psittacidae
- Genus: Psittacara
- Species: Psittacara wagleri
Vocalization
Contact Calls: These are the most common vocalizations and are used to keep flock members in contact with each other when flying. The calls are usually loud, sharp, and repetitive, helping to maintain cohesion among the group.
Alarm Calls: When a potential threat is detected, Scarlet-fronted Parakeets emit a series of rapid, high-pitched calls. These serve to alert other members of the flock to the presence of predators or other dangers.
Social Calls: These calls are used during social interactions within the flock, such as when feeding or during courtship. They can be softer and more varied than contact or alarm calls, often involving a series of chattering sounds.
Begging Calls: Juvenile parakeets use these calls to solicit food from their parents. They are typically high-pitched and persistent, ensuring that the parents attend to their needs.
Purpose
Communication: The primary purpose of vocalizations is communication within the flock. These calls help maintain group cohesion and coordination, especially during flight or when foraging.
Territoriality: Vocalizations can also serve to establish and defend territory. By calling, parakeets can deter other birds from encroaching on their space.
Mating and Courtship: During the breeding season, vocalizations play a crucial role in attracting mates and facilitating courtship behaviors. These calls help establish pair bonds and synchronize mating activities.
Alerting to Danger: Alarm calls are crucial for survival, as they enable the flock to respond quickly to threats. By alerting others, parakeets can take evasive action to avoid predators.
The vocalizations of the Scarlet-fronted Parakeet are essential for their social structure, survival, and reproduction. Their calls are a key aspect of their behavior, allowing them to navigate their environment effectively.
