Psittacara maugei
The Puerto Rican Parakeet, *Psittacara maugei*, was a vibrant and endemic species to Puerto Rico, tragically declared extinct around the early 20th century. Measuring approximately 30-33 cm (12-13 inches) in length, it was predominantly bright green, typical of *Psittacara* species, with subtle hints of red on the bend of its wing and possibly around the eye, though specific detailed descriptions are sparse due to its early extinction. Its overall appearance was very similar to the extant His...
This parakeet primarily inhabited forested areas, particularly the dry limestone hills and coastal forests of southwestern Puerto Rico, often utilizing natural rock crevices and tree cavities.
Its diet consisted primarily of fruits, seeds, and flowers from various native trees and shrubs, foraged actively within the forest canopy.
Like its living relatives, the Puerto Rican Parakeet was a highly social bird, likely forming noisy, conspicuous flocks that foraged and roosted communally. Daily activities would have centered around foraging flights in the morning and late afternoon, interspersed with periods of resting and pre...
The Puerto Rican Parakeet was entirely endemic to the island of Puerto Rico. Its historical range was concentrated in the arid, southwestern limestone regions of the island, extending into coastal dry forests. Historical records also suggest a possible presence on Mona Island, though this remains...
Extinct
- The Puerto Rican Parakeet is one of the very few bird species endemic to Puerto Rico that is now extinct, having vanished in the early 20th century. - Its scientific name, *maugei*, honors French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Maugé, who collected the type specimen in the early 19th century. - The la...