Plum-headed Parakeet

Classification: Order: Psittaciformes, Family: Psittaculidae, Genus: Psittacula, Species: P. cyanocephala

Plum-headed Parakeet

Brief Description

A medium-sized, slender parrot known for its strikingly colorful head and very long tail. They are highly social and known for their musical, flute-like calls rather than the usual parrot screeches.

Additional Information

  • Region of Origin: The Indian Subcontinent (India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan)
  • Typical Sighting Period: Year-round resident, most active during the breeding season from December to April
  • Plumage Details: Adult males have a plum-red head that fades to blue-purple on the back of the head. Females have a bluish-grey head. Both have a yellowish-green body, a bright yellow upper beak, and a long bluish-green tail with a white tip.
  • Ecological Significance: Acts as an important seed disperser within forest ecosystems. They consume various fruits, grains, and blossoms, helping to propagate many plant species throughout their range.
  • Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
  • Observation Tips: Look for them in open woodlands and forested areas. They are often seen in small flocks and are best identified by their distinctive 'tuink-tuink' call. Use binoculars to look for the maroon shoulder patch on males.