The cliff parakeet is a Near Threatened species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is endemic to Bolivia.
Region
Central Andes (Bolivia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in inter-Andean valleys with arid to semi-arid scrub, thorny woodland, and a mosaic of small farms and pastures. It favors areas with accessible cliff faces for colonial nesting, often near rivers or eroded canyon walls. Foraging takes place in nearby fields, open scrub, and along riparian corridors. The species adapts readily to human-modified landscapes but remains tied to suitable cliff-nesting sites.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The cliff parakeet nests colonially on steep rock faces rather than in trees, an unusual habit among parrots. It is often treated as a split from the monk parakeet and is restricted to inter-Andean valleys of Bolivia. Noisy, highly social flocks are a familiar sight around agricultural areas, where they forage on seeds and crops.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with fast, direct flight
Social Behavior
Highly gregarious, forming noisy flocks and large cliff-side colonies. Pairs are typically monogamous and cooperate in building stick nests on ledges and crevices. Colonies may contain multiple chambers and are reused across years. Roosting is communal and occurs at or near nesting cliffs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, chattering contact calls interspersed with sharp, metallic squeaks. Colony gatherings produce a constant chorus that carries over long distances.
