The austral parakeet, austral conure, cachaña, rawilma or emerald parakeet is a species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is found in Argentina, Chile, and possibly the Falkland Islands.
Region
Southern South America (Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego)
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern Chile and southwestern Argentina from northwestern Patagonia south to Tierra del Fuego, including forested Andean foothills and coastal zones. It favors temperate southern beech (Nothofagus) forests, forest edges, and clearings, and also uses shrublands and pastures. Birds often forage in orchards and open farmland near woodlots. Small offshore and channel islands with forest patches may also be used. There are occasional records from the Falkland Islands, likely as vagrants.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The austral parakeet is the world's southernmost parrot, thriving in the cool, windswept forests of Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. It often forms noisy flocks that move between forest edges and open areas to feed, and it roosts communally in trees. The species frequently relies on southern beech (Nothofagus) forests for both food and nesting cavities. Occasional vagrants have been reported from the Falkland Islands.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small to medium-sized flocks outside the breeding season, often commuting between feeding and roosting sites. Nests in natural cavities of mature trees, especially southern beeches, sometimes reusing sites across years. Communal roosting is common, and family groups may remain together after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of sharp, rolling chatters and metallic screeches typical of conures. Calls carry over long distances in forested landscapes and become especially noisy during flock movements and at roosts.
