Enicognathus leptorhynchus
The Slender-billed Parakeet, or Choroy (Enicognathus leptorhynchus), is a captivating medium-sized parrot endemic to the temperate forests of Chile. Measuring approximately 33-36 cm (13-14 in) in length, including its elongated tail, and weighing around 150-180g, its plumage is predominantly a vibrant green, often appearing darker on the back and wings. A key identifier is the distinctive reddish forehead, lores, and a variable wash on the belly, contrasting with a darker greyish-brown crown ...
Found primarily in temperate Nothofagus (southern beech) and Araucaria forests, extending into sub-Andean valleys and increasingly adapting to agricultural areas at elevations from sea level up to 2000 meters.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds from a variety of trees, particularly Nothofagus and Araucaria cones, supplemented with fruits, berries, buds, and occasionally agricultural crops.
Slender-billed Parakeets are highly social and diurnal birds, typically observed in pairs or small family groups during the breeding season, but forming large, noisy flocks of several dozen or even hundreds outside of this period. Their specialized, decurved bill is central to their foraging stra...
The Slender-billed Parakeet is endemic to Chile, inhabiting a significant portion of the country from the Valparaíso Region in the central west, south through the Maule, Biobío, Araucanía, Los Ríos, Los Lagos regions, and down to the Aysén Region in southern Patagonia. Their distribution is prima...
Least Concern
- The Slender-billed Parakeet possesses one of the most uniquely specialized bills among all parakeets, perfectly adapted for extracting seeds from conifer cones. - Its scientific name, 'leptorhynchus,' directly translates to 'slender bill,' highlighting its most distinctive feature. - This speci...