The tepui parrotlet is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae. It is found in the tepuis of northern Brazil, western Guyana, and southern Venezuela.
Region
Guiana Highlands (tepui region)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the summits and upper slopes of tepuis in southern Venezuela, western Guyana, and northern Brazil (Roraima). It favors moist montane forest, elfin forest, forest edges, and shrubby growth atop sandstone plateaus. Birds also forage along clearings, rocky outcrops, and tepui rim vegetation where fruiting and flowering plants are abundant. The species is largely restricted to these high, isolated massifs and adjacent upland foothills.
Altitude Range
1000–2500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small parrot is confined to the isolated sandstone table mountains (tepuis) of the Guiana Highlands. It often forms small, fast-moving flocks that zip over the canopy, making it easy to miss despite its bright green plumage. Access to its remote, cliff-ringed habitat keeps it little-studied and seldom seen by birders.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; fast direct flight over the canopy
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small flocks, occasionally joining mixed-species foraging groups near fruiting shrubs. Nests are presumed in tree cavities typical of small parrots, with both parents attending the young. Breeding behavior is poorly documented due to the remoteness of its tepui habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high-pitched, thin twitters and sharp tsee notes given in rapid series during flight. Contact calls keep flock members coordinated as they move quickly between feeding sites.
