The bronze-winged parrot is a medium-sized pionus parrot 28 cm (11 in) long. It is a short-tailed stocky parrot found in forest and woodland in north-western South America.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid foothill and montane forests of northwestern South America, especially along the Andean slopes of Colombia, Ecuador, and northern Peru, with some populations in western Venezuela. Prefers mature and secondary evergreen forests, forest edges, and partially open woodlands. Often forages in the canopy of fruiting trees and along riverine corridors. It can adapt to mosaic landscapes with shade-grown plantations and fragmented forest, provided tall trees remain. Typically found in small groups or pairs, moving through the mid- to upper canopy.
Altitude Range
200–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
The bronze-winged parrot is a medium-sized, stocky Pionus notable for its metallic bronze sheen on the wings and the characteristic red undertail coverts shared by many Pionus parrots. It plays an important role in forest ecosystems as a seed disperser, frequently visiting fruiting trees. Generally quieter than many parrots, it can be inconspicuous when feeding high in the canopy.
Pet parrot
Side view
Temperament
social and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with strong, direct flights between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups and may gather at favored fruiting trees. Nests in natural tree cavities, where pairs are likely monogamous. Roosting can be communal in tall forest trees, especially outside the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are mostly nasal, wheezy calls and sharp squeaks, not a melodious song. In flight it gives piercing contact notes; at roost sites it may emit softer chatters and whistles.
