Perico del Sinú
Sinu Parakeet
Pyrrhura subandina
Song
Sinu Parakeet (Painted Parakeet)
Appearance: The Sinu Parakeet is a small parrot measuring 25 cm in length. It is known for its vibrant plumage. The parakeet has a green body with a red patch on its belly. Its face and throat may have a mix of blue and red, and it often has a white eye-ring. The wings are green with blue flight feathers, and the tail is long and pointed, often showing a reddish hue underneath.
Habitat: The Sinu Parakeet is found in the northwestern regions along the Sinu River basin. It inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, as well as secondary growth and forest edges. It is found in plantations and agricultural areas.
Behavior: Sinu Parakeets are highly social birds, often seen in small flocks. They communicate with a variety of calls and are known for their playful behavior. Their diet mainly consists of fruits, seeds, and flowers. They are known to forage in the canopy and sometimes visit agricultural areas for food. They are diurnal, being most active during the early morning and late afternoon.
Breeding: Breeding occurs in tree cavities, which they may excavate themselves or use existing ones. They nest in the cavities of dead trees. The female lays a clutch of 3 to 5 eggs. Both parents participate in incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks once they hatch. The breeding season can vary depending on the region but often coincides with the availability of food resources.
Conservation Status: The Sinu Parakeet is considered threatened and is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN.
Distribution
The Sinu Parakeet (Painted Parakeet) is found along the rio Sinú. North of Antioquia and south the department of Córdoba. Endemic.
Taxonomy
The Sinu Parakeet (Painted Parakeet) (Pyrrhura subandina)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Psittaciformes
- Family: Psittacidae
- Genus: Pyrrhura
- Species: Pyrrhura subandina
Vocalization
The Sinu Parakeet is known for its vocalizations, which serve various purposes.
Communication: The Sinu Parakeet uses vocalizations to communicate with other members of its flock. These calls can help maintain group cohesion, especially while flying or foraging.
Alarm Calls: These parakeets have specific alarm calls to alert others of potential threats or predators. These calls are usually louder and more urgent.
Mating Calls: During the breeding season, vocalizations can play a role in attracting mates. Males might use specific calls to court females.
Territorial Calls: Vocalizations can also be used to establish and defend territory. This is particularly important in areas where resources are limited.
Social Interaction: Apart from practical purposes, vocalizations are also used in social interactions among flock members, helping to establish social bonds and hierarchies.
Purpose
The vocalizations of the Sinu Parakeet serve essential purposes for their survival and social structure. By communicating effectively, these birds can coordinate activities such as foraging and avoid dangers. Furthermore, vocalizations play a crucial role in breeding and maintaining social bonds within flocks.
Given that the Sinu Parakeet is considered critically endangered, understanding their vocal behavior is important for conservation efforts, as it can provide insights into their social structure and habitat needs.
