Psittacara chloropterus
The Hispaniolan Parakeet (Psittacara chloropterus) is a captivating, medium-sized parrot endemic to the island of Hispaniola. Primarily vibrant green, it is distinguished by a prominent patch of red on the lesser underwing coverts, which is often visible in flight and occasionally at rest, alongside a smaller red spot on the carpal joint. Adults typically measure 30-33 cm (12-13 inches) in length, with a wingspan of 40-44 cm (16-17 inches) and weigh between 150-180 grams. Its taxonomic placem...
Found in a variety of forested habitats, including dry, moist, and even pine forests, as well as disturbed areas like agricultural lands, shade coffee plantations, and urban/suburban parks. They typically occur from sea level up to elevations of about 2,000 meters.
Primarily frugivorous and granivorous, their diet consists of a wide variety of fruits, seeds, flowers, and nectar from native and introduced plants. They forage actively in the canopy and mid-story, using their powerful beaks to extract food.
Hispaniolan Parakeets are highly diurnal and gregarious birds, often seen in large, noisy flocks outside the breeding season, congregating at communal roost sites in tall trees or cliff faces at dusk. Their foraging strategy involves actively searching for fruits, seeds, flowers, and nectar in th...
The Hispaniolan Parakeet is strictly endemic to the island of Hispaniola, which comprises the Dominican Republic and Haiti. Its distribution is widespread across both countries, though it is often fragmented and locally restricted due to habitat loss and degradation. Historically, it was more con...
Vulnerable
- The Hispaniolan Parakeet is the only native parakeet species remaining on the island of Hispaniola. - They are known for their incredibly loud and raucous calls, which can carry for long distances. - These parakeets are cavity nesters, often utilizing old woodpecker holes or natural tree hollow...