The blue-fronted parrotlet is a species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is found in Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela.
Region
Central America and northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily in humid lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, and mature secondary growth. It favors areas with abundant fruiting trees and often keeps to the canopy and subcanopy, descending occasionally to edges and clearings. Local movements follow food availability, and flocks may appear suddenly where trees are fruiting. Human-altered landscapes with remnant tall trees can also be used when fruit is present.
Altitude Range
100–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small canopy parrot often goes unnoticed as it forages high in fruiting trees, moving swiftly in small, tight flocks. Males show a distinct blue forecrown that gives the species its name, while females have more subdued blue. It is sensitive to forest loss and can be locally nomadic, tracking seasonal fruiting. Sightings are often brief as groups shoot across gaps with rapid, whirring wingbeats.
A blue-fronted parrotlet seen through a scope in the Panamá Oeste Province of Panama
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in pairs or small flocks, sometimes joining mixed-species feeding aggregations at fruiting trees. Nests in tree cavities or decaying stubs, with pairs maintaining close bonds. Breeding timing varies regionally and appears tied to rainfall and fruiting cycles.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin twitters and sharp sips given in rapid sequences, especially during flight. At rest, groups exchange soft contact notes that can be hard to locate in the canopy.
