The spectacled parrotlet is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae.
Region
Northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in Colombia with extension into eastern Panama, favoring semi-open habitats. It uses dry and moist forest edges, secondary growth, thorn scrub, gallery woodland, and agricultural mosaics with scattered trees. The species adapts well to human-altered landscapes, including pastures, orchards, and rural gardens. It avoids dense interior rainforest but regularly forages along edges and clearings.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
The spectacled parrotlet is a tiny South American parrot named for the blue "spectacles" that encircle the male’s eyes. It shows marked sexual dimorphism: females lack the bold blue facial and wing patches. They nest in tree cavities, fence posts, and sometimes termitaria. Although popular in aviculture, it remains primarily a wild, non-migratory species.
Male near nest entrance
Hand-fed male spectacled parrotlet, 5 months old
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small flocks, sometimes gathering in larger groups at feeding sites. Monogamous pairs nest in cavities such as tree holes, fence posts, or abandoned nests of other species. Clutches are typically several white eggs, and both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are high-pitched chips and twittering notes exchanged constantly within flocks. The song is a fast series of thin, ringing notes delivered in short bursts, used for contact and cohesion.
