Green Parakeet

Overview

The green parakeet (Psittacara holochlorus), also known as the green conure or Mexican green conure, is a New World parrot native to Mexico and southern Texas. It comprises three recognised subspecies, with one often considered a separate species, and is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN despite a decreasing population trend.

Identification

• 28 to 30.5 cm long, weighing approximately 230 g.
• Generally green plumage that is paler and yellower on the underparts, with variable red speckles on the cheeks and throat.
• Orange-red iris surrounded by pale beige skin, with a horn-coloured bill and brownish legs.
• Vocalisations include sharp squeaky notes, loud harsh calls, and a rolling, harsh, high-pitched screek in flight.

Habitat

Native to Mexico and the lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas, the species inhabits semi-open landscapes such as deciduous woodland, gallery forest, and scrublands between 500 and 2,000 m elevation. It avoids humid lowland forests and has established a population in Texas cities and towns, though sightings in other US states are likely escaped cage birds.

Diet

The diet is not fully documented but is known to include seeds and fruits. The species can act as a crop pest and makes local movements in response to food availability.

Did you know?

The specific epithet holochlorus is derived from the Classical Greek word meaning 'all-green' or 'all-yellow'.