Grey-cheeked parakeet

The grey-cheeked parakeet, also known as the fire-winged parakeet, is an enchanting bird from the parrot family, Psittacidae. These birds are predominantly green but are distinguished by their grey cheeks and a grey-blue crown. They also feature striking orange markings on their wings, earning them the nickname "orange-flanked parakeet." Measuring about 20 cm in length, with a wingspan of approximately 117 mm, and weighing around 54 grams, they are a compact yet vibrant species. In captivity, they can live up to 23 years and are known for their loud and lively calls.

Native to northwestern Peru and western Ecuador, grey-cheeked parakeets thrive in subtropical and tropical regions. They inhabit dry forests, moist lowland forests, shrublands, and even arable land. Interestingly, they have been spotted as far north as New York State in the United States.

Unlike many birds, grey-cheeked parakeets don't nest high up in trees. Instead, they prefer secure spots like termite mounds or tree hollows. The female lays clutches of four to six eggs, each about 2 cm by 1.6 cm in size. She incubates the eggs for 25-26 days while the male stands guard.

Unfortunately, these delightful birds are now endangered due to habitat loss, smuggling, and hunting. Most of the remaining populations are kept as pets. Efforts are underway to protect them, and they are listed under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals.

Despite their endangered status, grey-cheeked parakeets are cherished pets and are popular in the aviculture community. They can learn to mimic human sounds, though not as clearly as their larger parrot relatives.