Psittacara erythrogenys
The Red-masked Parakeet, Psittacara erythrogenys, is a strikingly vibrant member of the parrot family Psittacidae. Measuring about 33 cm (13 inches) in length, with a wingspan of approximately 45 cm, and weighing 160-200 grams, its body is predominantly bright green. Its most distinctive field mark is a brilliant scarlet red mask covering the forehead, lores, cheeks, and crown, sometimes extending down the throat, contrasting sharply with its green plumage and yellow eye-ring. The underside o...
Found in arid to semi-arid deciduous forests, dry scrubland, forest edges, and cultivated areas. Feral populations thrive in urban and suburban environments, from sea level up to 2000 meters in its native range.
Primarily feeds on a diverse array of seeds, fruits, flowers, nuts, and nectar, occasionally consuming insects. Forages arboreally, plucking items directly from plants, and sometimes on the ground.
These highly social parakeets are diurnal, spending their days foraging in noisy, active flocks that can number in the dozens or even hundreds outside the breeding season. They roost communally in large trees or palm fronds, often creating a cacophony at dawn and dusk. During the breeding season,...
The native range of the Red-masked Parakeet is restricted to the Pacific lowlands and adjacent Andean foothills of western Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Within this limited distribution, populations are fragmented due to significant habitat destruction from agriculture and logging, and historica...
Near Threatened
- The Red-masked Parakeet can live up to 25-30 years in captivity, making it a long-lived companion bird. - Feral populations in places like San Francisco and Los Angeles are descendants of escaped or released pet birds. - Their loud, raucous calls can carry for long distances, making their prese...