Eupsittula

Good-natured birds, sometimes kept as a companion parrot

This vibrant genus native to Central and South America boasts a dazzling collection of medium-sized parakeets. Also known as conures in aviculture, these feathered jewels add a splash of color to the lush rainforests and arid woodlands they call home.

Imagine a living kaleidoscope – that’s the Eupsittula genus in a nutshell. Each species within Eupsittula possesses a unique combination of vibrant greens, sunny yellows, fiery reds, and deep blues. Some, like the Olive-throated Parakeet, sport a more subdued elegance with olive-green bodies and contrasting yellow napes. Others, like the Orange-fronted Conure, are a riot of color, with bright orange foreheads contrasting beautifully with their turquoise chests and emerald wings.

These social butterflies flit through the trees in small flocks, their colorful wings flashing in the sunlight. They’re a talkative bunch, filling the air with a symphony of chirps, whistles, and squawks. Their calls are like a secret language, used for everything from coordinating movements and keeping track of each other to warning about predators.

Eupsittula are resourceful eaters. Their strong beaks are perfect for cracking open nuts and seeds, while their agile bodies allow them to reach the ripest fruits at the tips of branches. They’re not afraid to delve into the undergrowth either, searching for insects, grubs, and even the occasional flower bud.

These intelligent birds are known for their playful personalities. They love to chase each other through the trees in a flurry of feathers, playfully nipping at each other’s beaks and engaging in mock battles. Watching young Eupsittula is a delight – their boundless energy keeps them constantly chirping and testing their wings as they learn to fly alongside their parents.