The red-faced parrot is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs in the southern Ecuador–northern Peru Andes, primarily in moist montane cloud forests and forest edges. It favors ridgelines, elfin forest patches, secondary growth adjacent to primary forest, and areas with abundant fruiting podocarps and laurels. Birds may also use partially disturbed habitats and forested valleys near protected areas. Roosting often occurs in tall, mature forest with good canopy cover.
Altitude Range
1800–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Red-faced Parrot is a high-Andean parrot that favors cloud forests rich in podocarps and laurels. It often travels in small, noisy flocks and is frequently heard before it is seen. The species depends on seasonal fruiting trees and has been affected by deforestation and fragmentation of montane forests. Conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining cloud-forest habitat and encouraging reforestation with native trees.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flights across valleys
Social Behavior
Typically encountered in pairs or small flocks, sometimes forming larger groups at fruiting trees. Pairs maintain close contact calls and show strong pair bonds. Nests are presumed in tree cavities in mature forest, with small colonies or loose aggregations possible where suitable cavities and food coincide.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are loud, nasal chatters and screeches, often delivered in flight. Perched birds give repeated, grating notes and contact calls that help keep flocks together.
Plumage
Mostly green with a distinctive red mask on the face and lores, bluish outer flight feathers, and a maroon tinge at the bend of the wing. Underparts are green with subtle olive tones; tail shows bluish tips. Feathering appears compact and smooth, well-suited to damp montane environments.
Diet
Feeds mainly on fruits, seeds, and drupes of Andean trees such as podocarps (Podocarpus) and laurels (Lauraceae). Also takes berries, buds, and occasionally flowers. Flocking at fruiting trees is common, with individuals moving widely to track seasonal crops. It may supplement diet with seeds from secondary growth when primary forest resources are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid- to upper canopy of humid montane forest and along forest edges. Frequently visits fruiting trees on ridges and in partially disturbed forest, and sometimes along roadsides near intact habitat.
