The lilac-tailed parrotlet is a species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is found in Colombia, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname, Trinidad, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern South America and Trinidad
Typical Environment
Occurs from northern Colombia and northern Venezuela through the Guianas, and on Trinidad. It inhabits humid evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, gallery forest, and well-wooded foothills. Birds often keep to the mid- to upper canopy and visit forest edges and clearings when trees are fruiting. They may use secondary growth and plantations adjacent to intact forest. Local movements track food availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small parrotlet spends most of its time high in the forest canopy, making it easy to overlook despite traveling in chattering flocks. Its name comes from the subtle lilac sheen on the tail. Like many Touit parrotlets, it is nomadic over short distances, following seasonal fruiting. It is generally considered of least concern but remains poorly studied in parts of its range.
Temperament
social but shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; fast, direct canopy-level flight
Social Behavior
Typically seen in small flocks or family groups, often 4–12 birds, calling frequently while flying between fruiting trees. Pairs maintain close bonds within flocks. Nests are presumed in tree cavities like most parrots, with breeding timed to local rainy seasons. Outside breeding, flocks may roost communally.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Calls are high-pitched, thin whistles and rapid, tinkling chits given in flight. When perched, it gives soft twittering contact notes and brief chattering sequences.
Plumage
Mostly bright green with a subtle lilac wash on the tail and bluish tones on the flight feathers; underparts slightly paler. The crown and face are green with a faint yellowish tinge. Upperwing shows darker primaries with bluish edges; tail short and slightly rounded with lilac suffusion.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small fruits, berries, and seeds, including those of canopy trees and epiphytes. It also takes soft pulp and may nip buds and flowers seasonally. Foraging is often rapid and coordinated within small flocks. Birds may move widely to exploit temporary food sources.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid- to upper canopy of mature forest, along edges, and in tall secondary growth. Frequently visits fruiting trees in forest gaps and along ridgelines, and may enter nearby plantations when trees are bearing.
