The barred parakeet, also known as the lineolated parakeet or the Catherine parakeet, is a small psittaciforme bird found in the highland forests of tropical Latin America. Its plumage is mostly green, with multiple black or dark green stripes and bars and a pale, peach-colored bill. The darker stripes vary in prominence and intensity between the two subspecies. Several color mutations (morphs) are available in aviculture, as it has become a popular captive bird species.
Region
Mesoamerican Highlands and Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico through Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and western Panama, and in the Andes from western Venezuela and Colombia south into Ecuador and Peru. It inhabits humid montane and cloud forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. Birds often use bamboo, epiphyte-laden trees, and thickets, keeping to dense cover. They may also frequent high-elevation shade coffee and other semi-open, wooded agroforestry landscapes.
Altitude Range
1500–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 4/5
Also called the lineolated or Catherine parakeet, it is known for its unusually quiet, gentle demeanor among parrots. It spends much time clambering through foliage rather than flying, which, along with its cryptic barring, helps it remain inconspicuous. Several color mutations exist in aviculture, but wild birds are predominantly green with dark barring.
A natural coloured pet linnie
Temperament
social and quiet
Flight Pattern
short, rapid wingbeats with undulating flight; often reluctant to fly long distances
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small groups, sometimes forming loose flocks where food is abundant. Strong pair bonds are typical, and birds roost communally in dense foliage. Nests are placed in tree cavities, with breeding timed to local wet seasons.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft twittering and gentle chirps, generally low in volume compared to many parrots. Contact calls are thin, sibilant notes given while moving through the canopy.
