Slaty-headed Parakeet

Overview

The Psittacula himalayana is the only psittacid species to exhibit altitudinal migration. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Adults have green feathers tinted with blue over most of the body.
• The head is dark grey with a light blue tint where it meets the neck.
• Males possess dark maroon patches on the inner wing coverts and long central tail feathers, whereas females lack these markings.
• The tail is green at the base, becoming deep blue with bright yellow tips.
• Features a bright red-orange upper mandible, a pale yellow lower mandible, and a pale yellow eye.

Habitat

Found throughout the Himalayas and surrounding areas, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. It inhabits highland forests and valley woodlands at elevations of 460–2400 meters, descending to valleys in winter.

Diet

Forages in small flocks or family groups for various fruits, nuts, pine nuts, seeds, nectar, and acorns. Larger flocks are typically observed near the end of the wet season.

Did you know?

It is the only psittacid species known to exhibit altitudinal migration. In Afghanistan, the species often nests in abandoned cavities of the scaly-bellied woodpecker for security against predators.