The sapphire-rumped parrotlet is a species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.
Region
Northern Amazon Basin and the Guianas
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Venezuela and Colombia through northern Brazil, and in the Guianas, extending west into eastern Ecuador and Peru. It inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland rainforest, tall riverine forest, and forest edges. Birds often remain in the upper canopy but may descend to fruiting trees at forest margins or clearings. It can use terra firme and seasonally flooded várzea forests. Local movements likely track fruiting cycles.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Often detected by its sharp, high-pitched calls as small flocks zip over the canopy, this species can be surprisingly hard to see despite its bright rump. It forages high in trees and may visit mineral-rich clay licks along forest rivers. The short tail and vivid sapphire-blue rump are key field marks. It is generally uncommon to locally common across suitable northern Amazonian forests.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
swift, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically travels in pairs or small, fast-moving flocks, sometimes joining mixed-species fruiting aggregations. Nests in tree cavities, likely in dead limbs or old woodpecker holes. Pairs remain close during the breeding season and may show loose colonial tendencies where nest sites are available.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, high-pitched twitters and short rattling notes given in rapid series, especially in flight. Perched birds emit thin, piercing squeaks and chattering contact calls. Vocalizations carry far above the canopy and help locate passing flocks.
