Rhynchopsitta pachyrhyncha
The Thick-billed Parrot, *Rhynchopsitta pachyrhyncha*, is a striking and highly specialized parrot endemic to the high-elevation coniferous forests of Mexico, once also breeding in the southwestern United States. This charismatic bird measures approximately 37-43 cm (14.5-17 in) in length with a wingspan of about 60-70 cm (23.5-27.5 in) and weighs 300-400 grams (10.5-14 oz). Its plumage is predominantly emerald green, accented by a distinctive bright red forehead, supercilium, and carpal (sho...
Found primarily in high-elevation coniferous and pine-oak forests, typically between 1,500 to 3,500 meters (5,000-11,500 ft) above sea level.
Primarily granivorous, feeding almost exclusively on the seeds of coniferous trees, especially various species of pine; also consumes acorns, fruits, and buds when conifer seeds are scarce.
Thick-billed Parrots are highly social and diurnal, spending their days foraging and typically roosting communally in large tree cavities or rock crevices at night. Their foraging strategy is highly specialized; they deftly use their powerful bill and zygodactyl feet to dismantle pine cones, extr...
The primary breeding and year-round range of the Thick-billed Parrot is restricted to the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range in Mexico, specifically within the states of Chihuahua, Durango, and Sonora. Within this distribution, they occupy high-elevation pine, fir, and pine-oak forests, gener...
Endangered
- The Thick-billed Parrot is North America's only true forest-dwelling parrot, uniquely adapted to cold, high-altitude environments. - Their powerful, hooked black bill is perfectly designed to tear apart tough pine cones to extract the seeds. - These parrots often feed upside down, hanging preca...