Burrowing parrot

The burrowing parrot, scientifically known as Cyanoliseus patagonus and also referred to as the Patagonian conure or burrowing parakeet, is a distinctive species of parrot found in Argentina and Chile. It is recognized for its unique nesting behavior, where it excavates elaborate burrows in cliff faces and ravines to create colonies for raising its young.

Description and Identification

Adult burrowing parrots measure between 39 and 52 cm in length, with a wingspan of 23–25 cm and a long, graduated tail. A key identifying feature is a bare white eye ring and a post-ocular patch. Their plumage is predominantly olive-brown on the head and upper back, with grey-brown throat and breast, often featuring a variable whitish pectoral marking. The lower thighs and central abdomen are typically orange-red, with the extent and hue of this coloration believed to indicate breeding quality. The lower back, upper thighs, rump, vent, and flanks are yellow, and the wing coverts are olive green. The tail exhibits an olive green color with a blue caste when viewed from above and brown from below. They possess a grey bill, yellow-white iris, and pink legs. While visually similar, burrowing parrots exhibit slight sexual dimorphism; males are generally larger and have more prominent red abdominal patches. Under UV light, males display brighter green feathers, while females show brighter blue feathers.

Distribution and Habitat

This species is native to much of Argentina, with isolated populations in central Chile. During winter, Argentinian populations may migrate north to southern Uruguay, and Chilean birds undertake vertical migrations to lower altitudes. They prefer dry, open country environments up to 2000 meters in elevation. Their preferred habitats include montane grassy shrubland, Patagonian steppes, arid lowlands, woodland savanna, and the plains of the Gran Chaco. They are also adaptable and can be found in farmland and at the edges of urban areas.

Diet and Behavior

The diet of the burrowing parrot is varied, consisting of seeds, berries, fruits, and vegetable matter. Their feeding habits change seasonally, with fruit consumption peaking in the summer months. In winter, they rely more heavily on seeds from cultivated crops and wild plants. Burrowing parrots are known to be socially and genetically monogamous. They nest in large colonies, which is thought to offer protection against predation. In the absence of suitable cliffs, they may utilize anthropogenic sites like quarries and pits, and rarely, tree cavities.

Reproduction

The breeding season commences in September, with eggs laid until December. A clutch typically contains two to five eggs, with an incubation period of 24–25 days. The female is the sole incubator, while the male provides sustenance. Eggs hatch asynchronously, and chicks fledge approximately eight weeks after hatching, remaining dependent on their parents for up to four months.

Conservation and Human Interaction

While the burrowing parrot is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, its populations are in decline due to exploitation for the wildlife trade and persecution as a crop pest. Their unique nesting habits make them susceptible to human disturbances and habitat degradation. The Chilean subspecies, C. p. bloxami, is particularly vulnerable and listed on the Chilean national vertebrate red list. Despite being officially recognized as a crop pest in Argentina, studies suggest the economic impact of their crop predation is insignificant. In aviculture, the burrowing parrot is a popular companion bird, known for its playful and affectionate nature, and ability to mimic sounds and learn speech. Verified lifespans in captivity have reached up to 19.5 years, with plausible claims extending to over 34 years.