Pacific parrotlet

The Pacific parrotlet, also known as Lesson's parrotlet, or the celestial parrotlet, is a species of small parrot in the family Psittacidae.

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Distribution

Region

Pacific lowlands of northwestern South America

Typical Environment

Occurs from western Ecuador into northwestern Peru, especially in dry to semi-arid lowland habitats. It frequents deciduous and thorn scrub, riparian woodland, secondary growth, and agricultural mosaics. The species readily uses forest edges, open country with scattered trees, hedgerows, and urban parks. It is generally a non-migratory resident throughout this range.

Altitude Range

0–1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size12–14 cm

Wing Span25–30 cm

Male Weight0.033 kg

Female Weight0.03 kg

Life Expectancy15 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 3/5

Useful to know

Also called the celestial or Lesson’s parrotlet, this tiny parrot is native to the Pacific lowlands of Ecuador and northwestern Peru. Males show vivid cobalt-blue patches on the wings and rump, while females lack the blue and appear greener. They form strong pair bonds and nest in natural cavities, including fence posts and tree holes. Adaptable and often seen near human settlements, they are popular in aviculture but are not truly domesticated.

Gallery

Wild male in Peru

Echo Smithour, turquoise pacific parrotlet. 2024

Blue male Pacific parrotlet

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Typically found in pairs or small flocks, sometimes larger groups at roosts or feeding sites. Strongly monogamous pairs maintain close contact and mutual preening. Nests are placed in cavities in trees, posts, or similar structures; both partners participate in nesting activities.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

High-pitched, quick twittering notes and soft chirps used for contact within flocks. Calls accelerate and become more chattering when excited or in flight.

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Identification

Leg Colorpinkish-grey

Eye Colordark brown

Plumage

Compact, short-tailed parrotlet with smooth green plumage; males have bright cobalt-blue on rump and flight feathers, females greener overall without blue. Bill pale horn and relatively stout; juveniles duller with less contrast.

Feeding Habits

Diet

Primarily consumes small seeds from grasses and weeds, along with buds, blossoms, and soft fruits. Will take leaf buds and tender shoots, especially in dry seasons when seeds are abundant. Occasionally forages on cultivated crops and garden plants.

Preferred Environment

Feeds in open scrub, woodland edges, weedy fields, and agricultural areas, often at low heights in bushes or on the ground. Also visits urban parks and gardens where seed sources are plentiful.

Population

Total Known Populationunknown

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