El Oro Parakeet (Pyrrhura orcesi) – Endemic to Ecuador

Appearance

• Head: The El Oro Parakeet features a distinctive plumage with a green head and body. It has a subtle blue wash on the forehead and cheeks, adding to its colorful appearance.
• Body: The body is primarily bright green, with a contrasting maroon patch on the belly and a blue tinge on the wings. The tail is also green with blue edges.
• Size: This medium-sized parakeet measures about 22 centimeters (8.7 inches) in length, including its long, tapered tail.

Habitat

• The El Oro Parakeet is found exclusively in the cloud forests of the southwestern provinces of El Oro and Loja in Ecuador. These forests are typically located at elevations ranging from 600 to 1,300 meters (2,000 to 4,300 feet).
• These parakeets inhabit dense, humid forests and are often found in forest edges and clearings, where they can forage more easily.

Diet

• The El Oro Parakeet’s diet consists mainly of fruits, seeds, and nuts, which they forage for in the forest canopy. They have a particular preference for figs and fruits of the Lauraceae family.
• In addition to fruits, they also consume flowers and nectar, and occasionally small insects, providing them with a varied and nutritious diet.

Behavior

• El Oro Parakeets are highly social birds, typically seen in small flocks ranging from a few individuals to larger groups. They are very active and vocal, constantly chattering and calling to each other.
• These parakeets are known for their acrobatic feeding habits, often hanging upside-down to reach fruits and seeds. They also exhibit strong pair bonds and cooperative breeding behaviors.

Vocalizations

• Their vocalizations include a range of high-pitched calls and chattering sounds, which they use to communicate with flock members and maintain social bonds.

Conservation Status

• The El Oro Parakeet is classified as endangered due to its restricted range and ongoing habitat loss from deforestation and agricultural expansion. Conservation efforts are essential to protect their remaining habitat and ensure their long-term survival.