El Oro parakeet
The El Oro parakeet is an endangered parrot species endemic to the west slope of the Ecuadoran Andes. Its most distinctive features include a predominantly green plumage with a red forehead and lores in males, and a maroon tail. These birds are known to forage in flocks and exhibit cooperative breeding behaviors.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to the west slope of the Ecuadoran Andes in Azuay and El Oro provinces.
- ›Males have a red forehead and lores, while females have reduced red coloration.
- ›Feeds on fruits and berries, including figs.
- ›Forages in flocks, sometimes numbering up to 60 individuals.
- ›Breeds cooperatively, with pairs often accompanied by helpers.
- ›Classified as Endangered by the IUCN due to a limited range and declining population.
Ecuador
Humid Subtropical Forest, Humid Tropical Forest
- Red forehead and lores
- Maroon tail with green base
- Grayish buff barring on throat, neck sides, and breast
- Bare pinkish skin around dark iris
Fruit, Berries, Figs, Heliocarpus, Hieronyma, Cecropia
Series of grating notes with a hoarse quality, Single 'chuk' or 'krrr' notes, Noisy chattering when flocking
Natural Tree Cavities, Nest Boxes
About El Oro parakeet
The El Oro parakeet (Pyrrhura orcesi) is a species of parrot native to Ecuador, specifically found on the west slope of the Andes in the Azuay and El Oro provinces. This species is recognized for its predominantly green plumage, with adult males distinguished by a red forehead and lores, and a distinctive maroon tail. Females exhibit similar coloration but with less pronounced red markings on the head.
Distribution and Habitat
This parakeet's range is highly restricted, covering an area of approximately 3,800 km². It inhabits humid subtropical and tropical forests, typically found at elevations between 600 and 1,300 meters, though it has been observed at lower and higher altitudes. The limited distribution and fragmentation of its habitat contribute to its conservation concerns.
Behavior and Diet
El Oro parakeets are social birds, frequently observed foraging in flocks that can range from a few individuals to as many as 60. Their diet consists of fruits and berries, with specific food sources including figs and plants from the genera Heliocarpus, Hieronyma, and Cecropia. They are not known to exhibit any specific migratory patterns.
Breeding and Vocalization
The breeding season for the El Oro parakeet generally occurs between March and July. They nest in natural tree cavities, sometimes at considerable heights, and have also been observed utilizing nest boxes provided in reserves. A notable aspect of their breeding is cooperative behavior, where a breeding pair is often assisted by up to six helpers. Their vocalizations include a series of grating, hoarse notes, single 'chuk' or 'krrr' calls when perched, and a noisy chattering when flocks gather.
Conservation Status
Classified as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the El Oro parakeet faces significant threats due to its limited range and declining population, estimated to be fewer than 1000 mature individuals. Habitat loss and fragmentation are primary concerns. Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of the Buenaventura Reserve, aim to protect this species and its habitat, with a substantial portion of the population found within this protected area.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the El Oro parakeet?
The El Oro parakeet is an endangered bird species belonging to the parrot family. It is known for its predominantly green plumage, red forehead in males, and maroon tail.
Where does the El Oro parakeet live?
This parakeet is found exclusively on the west slope of the Ecuadoran Andes, within the Azuay and El Oro provinces. Its known range is approximately 3,800 square kilometers.
What does the El Oro parakeet eat?
The diet of the El Oro parakeet primarily consists of fruits and berries. Known food sources include figs, and plants from the genera Heliocarpus, Hieronyma, and Cecropia.
What is the conservation status of the El Oro parakeet?
The El Oro parakeet is listed as Endangered by the IUCN. This status is due to its very limited geographic range and an estimated population of fewer than 1000 mature individuals, with both range and population thought to be declining.
How do El Oro parakeets breed?
El Oro parakeets nest in natural tree cavities, often at significant heights above the ground. They exhibit cooperative breeding, where a pair is assisted by up to six helpers during the breeding season, which spans from March to July.
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