Aratinga auricapillus
The Golden-capped Parakeet, *Aratinga auricapillus* (though often reclassified as *Eupsittula auricapillus*), is a vibrant, medium-sized parrot endemic to Brazil, celebrated for its distinctive coloration. Measuring approximately 30 cm (12 inches) in length and weighing between 150-180 grams, its body is predominantly bright green, contrasting sharply with a striking orange to golden-red cap on its crown and forehead, extending to behind the eye. Key field marks include the prominent golden-r...
Found in dry to semi-deciduous forests, caatinga, gallery forests, and open woodland areas, often near cultivated lands or palm groves. It typically inhabits elevations from sea level up to around 1,000 meters (3,300 feet).
Primarily frugivorous and granivorous, feeding on a diverse array of seeds, fruits, berries, flowers, and nectar from various tree and plant species. They occasionally supplement their diet with insects.
Golden-capped Parakeets are highly social birds, typically observed in noisy flocks ranging from small groups to several dozen individuals, though breeding pairs will separate. Their daily activity is diurnal, characterized by active foraging during the day and communal roosting in large groups w...
The Golden-capped Parakeet is endemic to a significant portion of eastern and central Brazil, with its distribution stretching from the states of Piauí and Ceará in the northeast, south through Bahia, Minas Gerais, Goiás, and into São Paulo, Paraná, and Santa Catarina. There are two recognized su...
Least Concern
- The Golden-capped Parakeet is often reclassified under the genus *Eupsittula*, reflecting ongoing taxonomic revisions within the parrot family. - Despite its name, the 'golden cap' can range from bright orange to a deeper fiery red, varying among individuals and with age. - These parakeets are ...