The Hispaniolan parakeet is a Vulnerable species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is endemic to the island of Hispaniola which is shared by the Dominican Republic and Haiti. In the former country it is called "perico" and in the latter "perruche".
Region
Greater Antilles
Typical Environment
Occurs across much of Hispaniola, from lowland dry forests and savannas to foothill and montane edges. It frequents open woodland, pine forest mosaics, palm groves, agricultural areas, and urban parks. Flocks often forage in cultivated landscapes and along forest edges. Roosts are typically communal in tall trees, sometimes near towns.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This noisy, social parakeet is endemic to Hispaniola (Dominican Republic and Haiti) and is locally known as “perico” or “perruche.” It forms conspicuous flocks that commute between feeding areas and communal roosts, often using palms or tall pines. It nests in natural cavities, including dead royal palms and old woodpecker holes. Major threats include trapping for the pet trade and habitat loss, leading to a Vulnerable global status.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small to medium-sized flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes joining larger mixed groups at food sources. It nests in tree cavities, including palms and pines, and may use old woodpecker holes. Pairs maintain contact with loud calls and gather at communal roosts.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, harsh screeches and chattering calls that carry over long distances. In flight, flocks emit rapid, repeated notes; at roosts, they produce a lively chorus of squawks and chatter.
Plumage
Mostly bright green with slightly paler underparts and bluish tinge on the flight feathers; long, tapered tail with darker upper surface. Plumage is fairly uniform, lacking extensive red patches seen in some related species.
Diet
Feeds primarily on seeds, fruits, berries, buds, and flowers. It readily takes palm fruits and the seeds of native and cultivated trees. It may visit farms and orchards to exploit seasonal resources such as maize or citrus, which can bring it into conflict with growers.
Preferred Environment
Forages in forest edges, open woodlands, pine stands, and agricultural mosaics, including plantations and urban parks. Often feeds in the canopy but will descend to lower trees and cultivated plots when food is abundant.
