Bolborhynchus ferrugineifrons
The Rufous-fronted Parakeet, *Bolborhynchus ferrugineifrons*, is a critically endangered, small parakeet endemic to the high-altitude Andes of Colombia. Measuring approximately 18-19 cm (7-7.5 inches) in length, it exhibits a predominantly emerald green plumage that provides excellent camouflage within its montane forest and páramo habitats. Its most distinctive field mark, giving the species its common name, is the prominent rufous (rusty-red) forehead and lores, sometimes extending to the c...
Found exclusively in high-altitude Andean cloud forests, elfin forest, and páramo edge habitats, primarily between 2,800 and 4,000 meters elevation.
Feeds primarily on the seeds, fruits, flowers, and buds of various high-Andean plants, including *Espeletia* (frailejón), *Polylepis*, *Puya*, and *Chusquea* bamboo.
This diurnal parakeet typically roosts in tree cavities or natural rock crevices within its high-Andean habitat. Outside the breeding season, Rufous-fronted Parakeets are highly social, often forming cohesive flocks of 10 to 50 individuals, sometimes congregating into larger groups of hundreds. T...
The Rufous-fronted Parakeet is an exceptionally rare and geographically restricted species, endemic solely to the Central and Southern Andes of Colombia. Its current distribution is highly fragmented, encompassing isolated populations within the departments of Tolima, Huila, Cauca, Nariño, and Qu...
Critically Endangered
- The Rufous-fronted Parakeet is critically endangered, making it one of the most threatened parrot species globally. - It is entirely endemic to Colombia, found nowhere else in the world, inhabiting a fragmented range in the high Andes. - This species is a true high-altitude specialist, thriving...