Perico Carisucio
Brown-throated Parakeet
Eupsittula pertinax
Song
Brown-throated Parakeet
Appearance: The Brown-throated Parakeet is a medium-sized parrot measuring around 22 to 25 cm in length. It is characterized by its vibrant green plumage, with a brown patch on its throat and face. The wings and tail are also green, while the underparts are a lighter, more yellowish-green. The bird's beak is short and strong, adapted for cracking seeds and nuts. Its eyes are surrounded by a white ring, giving it a distinctive facial appearance.
Habitat: The Brown-throated Parakeet inhabits a variety of environments. It is found in open woodlands, savannas, and forest edges. The species is also adaptable to human-altered landscapes, such as agricultural areas and urban parks. This adaptability has allowed it to thrive in a range of settings, from lowland regions to mountainous areas up to 1,300 m in elevation.
Behavior: Brown-throated Parakeets are highly social and often seen in flocks. They are known for their noisy and active behavior, frequently engaging in playful interactions with each other. Their diet mainly consists of seeds, fruits, and flowers, which they forage for in trees and shrubs. The birds are also known for their acrobatic abilities, often hanging upside down to reach food.
Breeding: The breeding season for the Brown-throated Parakeet in Colombia occurs during the dry season, although this can vary depending on the region. They nest in tree cavities, which they either find or excavate themselves. The female lays a clutch of 3 to 5 eggs, which she incubates for about 24 days. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the chicks, which fledge approximately 6 weeks after hatching.
Conservation Status: The Brown-throated Parakeet is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Distribution
The Brown-throated Parakeet is not found in the Pacific regions but on the eastern slopes of the Western cordillera of the Andes up north from the department of Tolima as well as the Central and Eastern cordilleras to the tip north of the country. Also, found in the departments of Arauca, Meta, Casanare, and Vichada.
Taxonomy
The Brown-throated Parakeet (Eupsittula pertinax)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Psittaciformes
- Family: Psittacidae
- Genus: Eupsittula
- Species: Eupsittula pertinax
Vocalization
Contact Calls: Brown-throated parakeets use contact calls to maintain communication with each other, especially when they are in flight or foraging. These calls help keep the flock together and are essential for coordinating movements.
Alarm Calls: These parakeets also produce alarm calls to warn other members of the flock about potential predators or threats. These calls are typically sharp and urgent, prompting immediate attention and action from other birds.
Social Interaction: Vocalizations are crucial for social bonding within flocks. Parakeets engage in vocal exchanges that help establish and reinforce social hierarchies and relationships.
Mating Calls: During the breeding season, males may use specific calls to attract females. These calls are part of their courtship behavior and play a role in mate selection.
Purpose
Survival: Alarm calls and contact calls are critical for the survival of these parakeets. By alerting one another to threats and maintaining group cohesion, they increase their chances of avoiding predators and finding food.
Reproduction: Vocalizations during the mating season are vital for attracting mates and successful reproduction. They help individuals find suitable partners and establish territories.
Social Structure: Regular vocal interactions help maintain the social structure within flocks. They facilitate cooperation, reduce conflicts, and ensure the smooth functioning of the group.
