The blue-bellied parrot or purple-bellied parrot is the only species in its genus. It is generally considered endemic to the humid Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil, but there are two unconfirmed records from Misiones in Argentina. It occurs up to 1000 m. (3300 ft).
Region
Southeastern Brazil (Atlantic Forest)
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid evergreen Atlantic Forest from coastal and montane slopes of southeastern Brazil, mainly in and along the Serra do Mar. It occupies primary forest as well as mature secondary forest, often favoring palm-rich areas and fruiting trees. Birds are most often observed in the upper canopy and at forest edges, occasionally using adjacent orchards. Records outside Brazil are unconfirmed, with a few reports from Misiones, Argentina. It is generally local and patchy where suitable habitat remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the purple-bellied parrot, it is the sole member of its genus. It is a quiet, often inconspicuous parrot of Brazil’s Atlantic Forest, where it stays high in the canopy and is easily overlooked. Habitat loss has reduced its range, and it is now patchily distributed. Males show a striking blue to purplish belly patch, a key field mark.
Temperament
quiet, wary, and canopy-dwelling
Flight Pattern
swift, direct flight with rapid wingbeats through and above the canopy
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups; larger flocks are uncommon. It is presumed monogamous and nests in tree cavities within mature forest. Breeding pairs are discreet and often remain within dense foliage. Outside the breeding season, small groups forage together around fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, whistled notes and subdued chattering, much less raucous than many parrots. Calls carry poorly through dense forest, contributing to the species being overlooked. Males may give slightly more frequent contact calls when moving between fruiting trees.
