The mountain parakeet, also known as the golden-fronted parakeet, is a species of parrot, one of two in the genus Psilopsiagon within the family Psittacidae. It is found in the Puna grassland. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland. Four subspecies are recognised.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Found along the central Andes from southern Peru through western Bolivia into northern Chile and northwestern Argentina. It inhabits open Puna grassland, arid montane shrublands, canyon slopes, and sparsely vegetated rocky hillsides. Birds frequently use agricultural edges and towns at high elevation, especially where seeding grasses and shrubs are abundant. Local movements track seasonal seeding and flowering of native plants, and flocks may descend to lower valleys during harsh weather.
Altitude Range
1500–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the golden-fronted parakeet, this small Andean parrot lives high in the Puna and adjacent shrublands. It often forms lively, fast-moving flocks and may make short upslope or downslope movements with food availability. Four subspecies are recognized across its range. It sometimes nests colonially in earthen banks or rocky crevices.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in small to medium flocks that keep in contact with constant chattering. Breeds in loose colonies or scattered pairs, often using burrows in earthen banks, rock crevices, or holes in structures. Pairs are monogamous and both adults attend the nest and young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A rapid series of high-pitched chirps and twitters, given continuously in flight. When perched, calls soften to conversational, rolling notes with occasional sharper contact calls.
