Hapalopsittaca pyrrhops
The Red-faced Parrot (Hapalopsittaca pyrrhops) is a striking, medium-sized psittacid, measuring approximately 22-24 cm (8.7-9.4 inches) in length and weighing around 120-140 grams (4.2-4.9 oz). Its plumage is predominantly emerald green, vividly contrasted by a distinctive bright red facial mask that extends from the forehead over the lores and around the eyes, giving the species its evocative common name. The primary coverts and carpal edge display a brilliant blue, while the tail feathers a...
This species exclusively inhabits humid, mossy montane cloud forests and sub-páramo zones, typically found at elevations between 2,000 and 3,000 meters (6,500-9,800 feet) in the Andean cordillera.
Their diet primarily consists of the fruits, seeds, and flowers of various montane forest trees and shrubs, particularly favoring species from the genera Fuchsia, Clusia, and Brunellia.
Red-faced Parrots are diurnal, generally observed in small, cohesive flocks of 5-15 individuals or occasionally in pairs during the breeding season. They forage actively in the forest canopy, employing a methodical search for fruits, seeds, and flowers, often using their strong bills and feet to ...
The Red-faced Parrot has a highly restricted and disjunct distribution within the humid montane cloud forests of the Andes. Its primary range is concentrated in southern Ecuador, specifically in the provinces of Azuay, Loja, and Zamora-Chinchipe. A separate, more isolated population exists furthe...
Vulnerable
- The Red-faced Parrot is endemic to a highly restricted range within the humid cloud forests of the Andes, making it a true montane specialist. - Its scientific name, pyrrhops, is derived from Greek words meaning "fire" (pyrrho-) and "face" (ops), directly referencing its striking facial plumage...