The slender-billed parakeet or choroy, is a species of bird in subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae, the African and New World parrots. It is endemic to Chile, where it is known by the local common name choroy.
Region
Central–Southern Chile
Typical Environment
Occurs from central to southern Chile, including the Coastal Range, Central Valley, and the northern Patagonian forests, and is common on Chiloé Island. It favors mature temperate forests with large cavity-bearing trees, especially southern beeches (Nothofagus) and mixed evergreen woods. The species also uses forest edges, secondary growth, and farmland mosaics with scattered trees. Flocks regularly visit orchards, pastures, and pine plantations to feed.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the choroy, this parakeet is found only in Chile and often gathers in noisy flocks that roam widely in search of food. Its unusually long, slender bill helps it extract seeds from cones and probe deep into buds and fruits. It frequently uses old tree cavities for nesting and may nest semi-colonially. In agricultural areas it sometimes raids orchards and grain fields, which brings it into conflict with farmers.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in noisy flocks outside the breeding season, sometimes numbering hundreds. Pairs are monogamous and nest in natural tree cavities; several nests may occur in the same grove. Roosting is communal, often in tall trees. Family groups may remain together after fledging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, rolling screeches and harsh chatters that carry over long distances. In flocks the birds keep up near-constant contact calls, while perched pairs exchange softer, nasal notes.
Plumage
Mostly bright green with a long, tapered tail; flight feathers show bluish tones and the bend of the wing can show reddish patches. The bill is notably long, narrow, and slightly decurved. Overall appearance is slim and elongated compared to many parakeets.
Diet
Feeds mainly on seeds, fruits, and buds from native trees such as Nothofagus, as well as cones and seeds from conifers. It also takes berries and cultivated fruits, and will glean grains and grass seeds in fields. The long bill allows it to pry into cones and reach deep-set seeds and buds.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the canopy and mid-story of temperate forests and along edges, and frequently visits orchards, pastures, and plantations. Will also feed on the ground in open areas adjacent to woodland.
