Hapalopsittaca amazonina
The Rusty-faced Parrot (*Hapalopsittaca amazonina*) is a captivating, medium-sized parrot, typically measuring 23-25 cm (9-10 inches) in length. Its plumage is predominantly emerald green, adorned with a distinctive rusty-orange coloration on its forehead, lores, and ear coverts, which gives the species its evocative common name. Notable field marks include an orange patch on the shoulder and striking blue primary feathers, visible in flight, complemented by hidden red underwing coverts. Taxo...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane evergreen forests and cloud forests, favoring forest edges and sometimes remnant patches in disturbed areas, at elevations typically ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 meters.
Their diet consists mainly of fruits and seeds, supplemented with flowers and buds, typically foraged directly from the canopy of montane trees.
The Rusty-faced Parrot is primarily diurnal, spending its active hours foraging high in the canopy and retreating to tree cavities, often old woodpecker holes, for nocturnal roosting and nesting. It is typically observed in pairs or small family groups, occasionally forming flocks of up to 20 ind...
The Rusty-faced Parrot has a fragmented distribution across the northern Andes of South America, primarily within Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Peru. Three recognized subspecies inhabit distinct geographical areas: *H. a. amazonina* is found in the Eastern Andes of Colombia (e.g., Santander, ...
Vulnerable
- The Rusty-faced Parrot is one of only four species in the genus *Hapalopsittaca*, all of which are restricted to the Andean region. - Its distinctive rusty facial mask is a key identifier, setting it apart from its close relatives. - Unlike many parrot species, it is notably quiet and inconspic...