The red-fronted parrotlet is a Near Threatened species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is found in Costa Rica and Panama.
Region
Central America
Typical Environment
Occurs in the highlands of Costa Rica and western Panama, primarily in humid montane evergreen and cloud forests. It favors mature forest but also uses edges and fruiting trees in secondary growth and along ridgelines. Birds often move locally in response to food availability, appearing unpredictably at fruiting trees. Roosting and foraging are mostly in the mid- to upper canopy, where its small size and green plumage make it difficult to spot.
Altitude Range
600–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive canopy parrotlet inhabits montane forests of Costa Rica and western Panama and is often detected only by its thin, high calls as it zips overhead. It often travels in small, fast-moving flocks and may make short altitudinal movements to track fruiting trees. Habitat loss in the Talamanca highlands has reduced its range and abundance. It belongs to the genus Touit, a group of small, short-tailed parrotlets specialized for life in dense forest canopies.
Temperament
wary and elusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; fast, direct canopy flights
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small flocks, sometimes joining mixed-species movements at fruiting trees. Likely nests in natural tree cavities high in the canopy. Pairs are presumed monogamous, with breeding timed to peaks in fruit availability. Often quiet while foraging but more vocal in flight.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are thin, high-pitched whistles and tinkling notes, often given in quick series during flight. The voice can resemble distant insect-like twitters, carrying well over the canopy.
