The cobalt-winged parakeet is a species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is found in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, and Venezuela.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs across lowland rainforest and riverine habitats of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, and Venezuela. Favors forest edges, secondary growth, seasonally flooded várzea, terra firme forest margins, and gallery forests along rivers. Frequently visits riverbank clay licks and forages in fruiting trees in clearings and along waterways. It also uses bamboo thickets and palm-rich swamps where available.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small Amazonian parakeet often gathers in noisy flocks and is frequently seen visiting riverbank clay licks to ingest minerals that help neutralize plant toxins. It typically nests in arboreal termite mounds or natural tree cavities. The cobalt-blue in its wings is most obvious in flight, when otherwise green birds flash striking blue primaries. It adapts well to forest edges and secondary growth and is commonly encountered along rivers.
Cobalt-winged parakeets at a clay lick along the Napo River, Ecuador
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually in small to large flocks that commute between roosts, foraging sites, and clay licks. Forms monogamous pairs within flocks. Nests in arboreal termite mounds or natural cavities, with both adults attending the nest. Communal roosting in tall riverside trees is common.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A sharp, high-pitched chatter of squeaks and screeches, especially loud in flight. Perched birds give rapid, nasal chattering and twittering contact calls.
