Aratinga auricapillus (Kuhl, 1820)

Species Identification & Size

This species, Aratinga auricapillus, commonly called the golden-capped parakeet, measures 30 cm (12 inches) in length, with an approximate adult weight of 4.9 to 5.25 ounces.

Adult Plumage

Its plumage is mostly green, and it has a black beak, white eyerings, an orange-red belly, and a red face that fades to yellow across the crown.

Juvenile Plumage Development

Juveniles in this species do not develop their characteristic yellow head markings and lower body red coloration until they reach adulthood.

Primary Habitat

Aratinga auricapillus primarily inhabits semi-deciduous forests in northeastern Brazil.

Adapted Habitats & Distribution

Over time, the species has adapted to live in rural agricultural areas, and even sometimes in urban settings, and has spread across the Brazilian states of Bahia, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Goiás, and Paraná.