Region

Southern Atlantic Forest

Typical Environment

Primarily found in southern Brazil, especially in the Araucaria-dominated highlands of Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina, with records in Paraná. It also occurs locally in adjacent northeastern Argentina and eastern Paraguay, though it is scarce outside Brazil. The species favors mosaics of native forest, secondary growth, and forest edges, and it makes seasonal shifts to coastal plains and valleys when key fruits are ripe. Communal roosts can involve hundreds of birds near reliable food sources.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1200 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Temperament

social and wary

Flight Pattern

strong flier with swift, direct flight

Social Behavior

Often seen in pairs or small groups that gather into large communal roosts outside the breeding season. Pairs form long-term bonds and nest in cavities of large trees, including old Araucaria. Breeding occurs in the austral spring to early summer, with both parents attending the young.

Migratory Pattern

Seasonal migrant

Song Description

Vocalizations are loud, rolling screeches and rasping calls, especially at dawn and dusk around roosts. In flight, flocks give repeated sharp notes; perched birds add conversational squawks and chatter.