The El Oro Parakeet is dark green, with red leading edges to the wings and outer tail feathers. Males also show a red forehead.
Endangered
In accordance with IUCN criteria, a species is considered to be Endangered if it is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild.
Species data
Class
Aves
Order
Psittaciformes
Family
Psittacidae
Scientific Name
Pyrrhura orcesi
Reserve locations
Ecuador
Behaviour
The El Oro Parakeet was only discovered in 1980. Like most parakeets, it is highly social, forming large groups for feeding on seed and fruits in the forest canopy. It breeds cooperatively, with a pair having up to six helpers.
Habitat
The parakeet is found exclusively on the forested slopes on the western Andes of Ecuador. It has only been confirmed as present at less than ten sites.
Threats and Conservation
Like many forest species, this parakeet suffers from extreme habitat loss and fragmentation, as logging and agricultural developments encroach on its habitat. There are believed to be only 250-1,000 individuals in the wild, a number still declining. Bird boxes have been used in some places to help boost breeding success.