The El Oro parakeet is an Endangered species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is endemic to Ecuador.
Region
Southwest Ecuador (western Andean foothills)
Typical Environment
Found in humid premontane and cloud forests on the west slope of the Andes, primarily within El Oro and adjacent Azuay provinces. It favors mature forest and tall secondary growth, often along forest edges and riparian corridors. The species persists in forest fragments and will use regenerating areas when fruiting trees are available. Conservation reserves with nest boxes and habitat restoration support key subpopulations.
Altitude Range
600–1300 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small conure is restricted to the humid foothill forests of southwest Ecuador and is threatened mainly by deforestation. It readily uses artificial nest boxes, a conservation measure that has boosted breeding success in protected areas like the Buenaventura Reserve. Cooperative breeding has been observed, with helpers assisting pairs at the nest.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
swift, direct flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually travels in small, noisy flocks of 6–20 birds, foraging together in the canopy. Pairs are likely monogamous and nest in tree cavities; use of artificial nest boxes is common in protected areas. Cooperative breeding has been recorded, with additional birds helping feed chicks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched chattering notes and rolling trills, especially when in flight. Contact calls are frequent within flocks and can carry across valleys.
Plumage
Mostly green with a dusky-brown head and buffy, scaly streaking on the throat and upper breast; belly often shows a reddish or maroon wash. Primaries have a bluish tinge, and the tail is reddish-brown. Underparts may show subtle scaling and mottling.
Diet
Primarily consumes fruits and berries from a variety of native trees, supplemented with seeds and flower parts. It may take soft pulp from cultivated fruits near forest edges. Occasional ingestion of buds and nectar is reported, and it may sporadically take small invertebrates while foraging.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the upper and mid-canopy of humid montane forest and along edges with fruiting trees. It also forages in secondary growth, shade plantations, and along corridors that connect forest fragments.
