The brown-hooded parrot is a species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is found from Mexico to Colombia.
Region
Mesoamerica
Typical Environment
Occurs from southeastern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica to western Panama. It favors humid evergreen and semi-evergreen lowland and foothill forests, and is most often seen in the canopy or at forest edges. Birds also use tall secondary growth and riparian corridors, and may visit fruiting trees in clearings and plantations. Local movements follow food availability, but it does not undertake long-distance migrations.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small parrot of humid forests is named for its distinct brown hood and the crimson patch at the ear coverts that gives it the species name haematotis, meaning 'blood-eared.' It typically travels in small, noisy groups high in the canopy and often visits fruiting trees. Though still fairly widespread, it depends on intact forest and is sensitive to heavy deforestation.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, chattering groups, often high in the canopy. Nests in tree cavities, likely using old woodpecker holes or natural decay hollows. Pairs maintain close contact and may join mixed-species parrot flocks at fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, metallic squeals and rolling screeches given in flight. Contact calls are repeated, high-pitched notes; perched birds give softer chatter when feeding.
Plumage
Compact green parrot with a distinct brown hooded head, bright blue in the wings, and a reddish patch at the ear coverts bordered by bluish tones. Underwing coverts show yellow to bluish hues in flight; tail green with bluish tips.
Diet
Feeds primarily on fruits, berries, and figs, supplemented by seeds and buds. It targets seasonally abundant fruiting trees and may visit cultivated orchards or cacao groves. Occasionally takes flowers and soft plant matter, swallowing fruit pulp and seeds.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly in the upper canopy and along forest edges, descending to mid-levels at fruiting trees. Will use tall secondary growth and forested river corridors where fruit is plentiful.
