Green-rumped Parrotlet

Overview

The Green-rumped Parrotlet is widespread across grassland, savanna, and open woodland habitats of northern South America, including coastal regions and some Caribbean islands where it has been introduced. It is among the smallest parrot species.

• Compact body with a short, squared tail
• Pale, stubby bill
• Clear sexual difference in wing coloring

Feather Identification

Both sexes are predominantly green, but males show blue feathering on the wing coverts and rump/lower back that is absent in females, which appear more uniformly green throughout.

• Flight feathers: Green in females; males show blue in the wing coverts and sometimes the outer secondaries
• Tail feathers: Short and green in both sexes
• Sex-based mark: Blue on the wing and lower back reliably indicates a male

Compared to the Pacific Parrotlet, blue in male Green-rumped Parrotlets tends to be concentrated on the wing coverts and rump rather than including a distinct eye-stripe, offering a subtle separating point between the two species.

This species shows clear sexual dimorphism, with males carrying blue wing and rump feathers that females lack. Juveniles resemble females initially, and young males gradually acquire blue feathering with maturity. Molt occurs gradually throughout the year.

Green-rumped Parrotlets occupy open grassland, savanna, scrub, and cultivated land with scattered trees across northern South America and some coastal and island areas. They are largely resident, with only local movements tied to food supply.

These small parrots are social, often foraging in pairs or small flocks on the ground and in low vegetation for grass and other seeds. They nest in natural cavities, fence posts, or other crevices, with both parents sharing chick-rearing duties. Vocalizations are high-pitched chirps and twitters, typically softer than those of larger parrot species.