Green-thighed parrot

The green-thighed parrot, also known as the eastern white-bellied parrot, belongs to the Psittacidae family. Previously referred to as the white-bellied parrot, recent research has led to its classification into three distinct species: the green-thighed parrot (Pionites leucogaster), the black-legged parrot (Pionites xanthomerius), and the yellow-tailed parrot (Pionites xanthurus).

The green-thighed parrot thrives in the humid forests and wooded areas of the Amazon, particularly south of the Amazon River in Brazil. They are often spotted in protected areas such as Cristalino State Park, Xingu National Park, and Amazônia National Park.

In terms of appearance, the green-thighed parrot is remarkably colorful. It boasts an orange-yellow head and vent, a white or off-white belly, green wings, thighs, and back, bluish primary feathers, a pinkish-horn beak, and pinkish legs and feet. Juveniles exhibit slight differences, featuring brownish or black feathers on the head and nape, yellow feathers on the belly, and greyish legs. As they mature, these off-colored feathers are replaced by orange or white ones. Additionally, young birds have dark brown irises that turn rust or orange with age. Interestingly, the white breast feathers of wild caiques, which are a type of parrot, often appear stained chestnut brown due to tannins from their bathing habits. Moreover, the head and nape plumage of the white-bellied parrot fluoresce strongly under ultraviolet light.