Pyrilia barrabandi
The Orange-cheeked Parrot (Pyrilia barrabandi) is a vibrant, medium-sized Neotropical parrot, typically measuring around 20-22 cm (8-8.7 inches) in length. Its plumage is predominantly emerald green, elegantly contrasted by striking bright orange patches on its cheeks, which give the species its common name. Key identification marks include a distinct yellow eye-ring, a prominent red patch on the carpal joint (bend of the wing), and brilliant blue primary flight feathers visible in flight. Th...
This species primarily inhabits lowland humid evergreen forests, including both terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea forests, generally found at elevations up to 800-1000 meters. It often shows a preference for areas near major rivers within the Amazon Basin.
Their diet primarily consists of various fruits, seeds, and flowers gleaned from the forest canopy, with occasional reports suggesting the consumption of insects. They are agile foragers, manipulating food items with their strong beaks and feet.
The Orange-cheeked Parrot is a diurnal species, typically observed in pairs or small, cohesive family groups of 3-10 individuals, occasionally forming larger flocks at rich feeding sites. They forage actively in the forest canopy, often remaining surprisingly inconspicuous despite their bright co...
The Orange-cheeked Parrot is a resident species found throughout the southern Amazon Basin of South America. Its distribution spans southern Colombia, eastern Ecuador, eastern Peru, northern Bolivia, and extensively across western Brazil, particularly in the states of Amazonas, Rondônia, and Acre...
Least Concern
- The Orange-cheeked Parrot was formerly classified under the genus Pionopsitta, but recent genetic studies moved it to Pyrilia, reflecting a closer relationship with a distinct group of Neotropical parrots. - Despite its vivid plumage, this parrot is often surprisingly difficult to spot in the d...