Green-rumped Parrotlet

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Forpus passerinus

Photo by Steve G
Photographed: Aripo Livestock Station, Trinidad

Identification

Generally green all over, nape and back of head has a greyish-white tinge. Lower back and upper tail-coverts nearest to base are green, in some birds with pale blue tinge; under wing-coverts and shoulders dark violet-blue; primary-coverts and base of secondaries violet-blue; outer webs of large upper wing-coverts pale blue. Tail yellowish green tipped with black. Bill pale horn-colour; narrow periophthalmic ring grey; iris dark brown; feet flesh-colored. Female are like the males, but do not have the blue markings; narrow band to forehead pale yellowish. Immature are like the adults. These birds are approximately 12 cm (4.75 ins).

Taxonomy

The nominate race is Forpus passerinus passerinus and there are several sub-species which are:

Forpus passerinus viridissimus: This sub-species is found in Venezuela and is like the nominate race but the the male has paler blue markings.

Forpus passerinus deliciosus: Smaller than the nominate race, the male has an emerald green rump with a bluish tinge and broad pale blue edging on the greater wing coverts. The female has more yellow throughout and a deeper yellow facial area.

Forpus passerinus cyanochlorus: Found in northern Brazil, the male is like the nominate race, but the female's tail feathers have more green on the underside, there is yellow throughout and a green forehead.

Forpus passerinus cyanophanes: On the male the blue wing-markings are more violet and show more blue when the wing is closed. This sub-species is found in northern Colombia

Habitat

Inhabits lowland wet and dry forests

External Links

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