Green Parakeet

The Green Parakeet, officially known as Aratinga holochlora, is actually a member of the parrot family, which most people do not know.  This particular species is commonly found on the Pacific slope of southern Mexico, all the way to Nicaragua.  In this area, the bird’s name changes to the Pacific Parakeet although it is the same species.  Interestingly, the only place you will find the Green Parakeet in the United States is in the extreme southern regions of Texas. 

Although many parakeets are small, the Green Parakeet is actually large with a dark green color on the top feathers and a yellow/green color on the underneath feathers.  The cheeks and back end are a bright green and this species of parrot has a long, pointed tail.  When in flight, the Green Parakeet has fast, deep wing beats.  A beautiful species, this bird is fun to watch. 

Although the population trends are again in the southern regions of Texas, you would generally see the range going all the way from Mexico through Guatemala to El Salvador, Honduras, and then into the southern area of Nicaragua.  While the Green Parakeet will stay in its native regions for the most part, they do follow food supplies.  In addition to the primary locations, you can also find some isolated groups of the Green Parakeet in the Pacific, specifically Socorro Island. 

You will find the Green Parakeet in wooded areas with the exception of rainforests.  When this particular species of parrot is not in current breeding season, they will be found in flocks to include up to 100 birds.  Now, if food is abundant, the number within the flock can be more.  For diet, the Green Parakeet typically eats nuts, seeds, berries, and fruits.  The Green Parakeet lives in tree cavities, holes in buildings, termite mounds, and stone crevices.  Then for breeding, these birds breed from January through the month of April.