Perico Ojiblanco
White-eyed Parakeet
Psittacara leucophthalmus
Song
White-eyed Parakeet
Appearance: The White-eyed Parakeet is a medium-sized parrot measuring about 30 to 34 cm in length. It has green plumage with a distinctive red patch on its shoulders and sometimes on the bend of the wings. The underparts are lighter green, and the tail is long and pointed. As its name suggests, it has a characteristic white eye-ring, which is one of its most distinguishing features. It has a strong, hooked beak that is grayish in color, and its legs are also gray.
Habitat: The White-eyed Parakeet is found in a variety of habitats across Colombia. It inhabits lowland forests, savannas, and open woodlands. It is found at altitudes ranging from sea level up to 1,500 m, although it can be found at higher elevations. This species is quite adaptable and can also be found in agricultural areas and urban environments where there are suitable trees for nesting and feeding.
Behavior: White-eyed Parakeets are highly social birds, often seen in flocks that can range from small groups to large aggregations of several hundred individuals. Their diet mainly consists of seeds, fruits, berries, and nuts. They are known to forage both in trees and on the ground. They are noisy birds, with a range of calls that include squawks and screeches, used for communication within the flock.
Breeding: The breeding season varies depending on the region but occurs during the warmer months. They nest in tree cavities, but they can also use artificial structures. The female lays 3 to 5 eggs, which she incubates for about 24 to 26 days. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the chicks, which fledge about 7 to 8 weeks after hatching.
Conservation Status: The White-eyed Parakeet is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN.
Distribution
The White-eyed Parakeet also known as the White-eyed Conure, is a bird species that inhabits various regions in Colombia. Its distribution in the country is influenced by the availability of habitats such as forests, woodlands, and areas with abundant vegetation. It is found in the Amazon basin, where the lush tropical rainforest provides an ideal habitat. This region includes the departments of Amazonas, Caquetá, Meta, and Putumayo. The bird is adaptable and is found in secondary forests and agricultural areas, as long as there are trees for nesting and feeding.
Taxonomy
The White-eyed Parakeet (Psittacara leucophthalmus)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Psittaciformes
- Family: Psittacidae
- Genus: Psittacara
- Species: Psittacara leucophthalmus
Vocalization
Calls and Sounds: Known for its loud and high-pitched calls. These calls are quite piercing and are described as screeches or squawks. They are heard when the birds are in flight or when they are perched in trees.
Social Communication: These vocalizations are crucial for maintaining contact with other members of their flock. In the wild, they travel in groups, and their calls help them stay connected.
Alarm Calls: They use specific calls to alert other members of the flock to potential dangers, such as predators.
Mating and Territory: During the breeding season, vocalizations play a role in attracting mates and establishing territory. Males use calls to court females or to signal their presence and readiness to breed.
Purpose
Social Cohesion: The main purpose of their vocalizations is to maintain social bonds within the flock.
Navigation: When flying in large flocks, vocalizations help individuals keep track of each other to stay together.
Breeding and Pair Bonding: Vocalizations are used in courtship and to strengthen pair bonds. This is important for successful breeding and rearing of young.
Defense: Alarm calls are essential for detection of threats.
