The rufous-fronted parakeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae. Endemic to Colombia, its natural habitats are high-altitude shrubland, high-altitude grassland and arable land. It is threatened by habitat destruction and is classified as "vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Region
Northern Andes (Colombia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in high-elevation grasslands (páramo) and transitional subpáramo shrublands, often around Espeletia stands, bunchgrasses, and boggy meadows. It uses open, windswept slopes, valley edges, and pastures, and commonly ventures to arable fields and stubble. Edges of montane forest and shrubby ravines are also used for shelter and feeding. Roosting sites are often in cliffs, banks, or dense shrub patches near open feeding grounds.
Altitude Range
2800–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small parakeet is confined to Colombia’s high Andean páramo and subpáramo zones and is often seen in noisy, fast-moving flocks skimming over grasslands. It frequently forages on the ground and low shrubs, and may visit nearby croplands. The species is thought to nest communally in earthen banks or cavities, a strategy shared with some close relatives. Habitat loss from burning, grazing, and agricultural expansion has contributed to its Vulnerable status.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with short rapid wingbeats over slopes
Social Behavior
Commonly forms flocks from a handful to several dozen birds, often commuting between feeding and roosting areas. Likely nests colonially or semi-colonially in cavities or earthen banks and roosts communally. Pairs maintain contact calls within flocks and show coordinated movements when flushed.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of sharp, buzzy chits and rolling trills given in flight. At roosts and feeding sites it adds chattering, scolding notes, creating a constant, high-pitched chorus.
Plumage
Mostly grass-green with darker mantle and wings; forehead and lores washed rufous; flight feathers slightly bluish; tail short and square-ended.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds of grasses and herbaceous plants, along with buds, flowers, and berries when available. It will take seeds from composite plants and thistles and sometimes visits barley or other highland crops. Foraging parties often pick at seed heads and glean from low shrubs. Ground foraging is common, especially in stubble and pasture edges.
Preferred Environment
Open páramo grasslands, subpáramo shrub edges, and nearby agricultural plots. It concentrates along sheltered slopes, ravines, and field margins where seed resources are abundant.
