The monk parakeet, also known as the monk parrot or Quaker parrot, is a species of true parrot in the family Psittacidae. It is a small to medium, bright-green parrot with a greyish breast and greenish-yellow abdomen. Its average lifespan is approximately 15 years. It originates from the temperate to subtropical areas of South America. Self-sustaining feral populations occur in many places, mainly in areas of similar climate in North America and Europe.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Native to temperate to subtropical regions of Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, southern Brazil, and parts of Bolivia, favoring open woodlands, savannas, farmlands, and urban parks. They readily thrive in human-modified landscapes and commonly nest on tall trees, utility poles, and communication towers. Introduced and self-sustaining populations occur across parts of North America (e.g., the United States), Europe (notably Spain and Italy), and elsewhere. In cities, they exploit green spaces and feeders and often form conspicuous colonies.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Monk parakeets are unique among parrots for building large, communal stick nests that can house multiple pairs and are used year-round. They are highly adaptable and have established feral populations in many cities worldwide, sometimes causing conflicts by nesting on utility structures. Intelligent and vocal, they are popular in the pet trade but are restricted or banned in some regions due to agricultural and infrastructure concerns.
Female pet from a free flight session in Uruguay
Egg.
Flock in Parc de la Ciutadella
Monk parakeet in Ga'ash
A flock in Santa Ponsa
Pair of monk parakeets nesting under an air conditioner in Brooklyn, NY
Temperament
social and noisy
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Highly gregarious, forming colonies centered on large communal stick nests with multiple chambers. Monogamous pairs maintain and defend their chambers while sharing the overall structure with neighbors. They gather in flocks to forage and roost, often in urban and agricultural settings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, harsh chattering calls and squeaky scolds given frequently in flight and at colonies. Vocal repertoire includes rapid chatter, buzzy trills, and contact calls that carry over long distances.
