The red-fan parrot, also known as the hawk-headed parrot, is a New World parrot hailing from the Amazon Rainforest. It is the only member of the genus Deroptyus.
Region
Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in lowland tropical rainforest across Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana. Favors primary terra firme forest but also uses seasonally flooded várzea, gallery forests, and forest edges. Often forages high in the canopy but will descend to feed at fruiting trees along rivers and clearings. Tolerates some secondary growth where mature trees remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the hawk-headed parrot, it is the sole member of the genus Deroptyus. It can raise a spectacular red-and-blue feather ruff around its neck when alarmed or displaying. This secretive canopy dweller ranges across much of the Amazon Basin and is known for powerful, falcon-like calls. Habitat loss and trapping affect local populations, but the species remains widespread.
Temperament
alert and sometimes territorial
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift, direct wingbeats through the canopy
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Pairs are likely monogamous and nest in tree cavities high above ground. Breeding typically coincides with periods of abundant fruit; clutches are small and both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include loud, piercing screeches and falcon-like calls that carry through the forest. Also gives sharp chatters and whistles during social interactions. When alarmed, it may hiss and raise its neck ruff.
Plumage
Mostly green body with a maroon-red and blue-barred chest and an erectile neck ruff of elongated red feathers edged in blue. Head and nape are dark brown with whitish streaking; back and wings bright green; tail green with bluish tips.
Diet
Feeds mainly on fruits, seeds, nuts, and berries taken from canopy trees. Will also consume flowers, buds, and nectar when available. Occasionally takes soft-bodied invertebrates or larvae, especially during breeding to supplement protein.
Preferred Environment
Forages primarily in the upper canopy of mature rainforest, often at fruiting trees. Also uses edges, river corridors, and patches of secondary growth with tall trees.
