Monk Parakeet

Monk Parakeet

© Greg Lavaty

Myiopsitta monachus

Family: (Psittacidae) Parrots and Allies

Preferred Habitat: Suburbs and urban areas.

Seasonal Occurrence: Within areas close to nesting sites, common throughout the year. Breeds in our area.

Sighting Reports Request: Daniel Brooks, Ph.D. of the Houston Museum of Natural Science is conducting a study of exotic species in Texas: Egyptian Goose, Mute Swan, Monk Parakeet, Scaly-breasted Munia, Orange Bishop, Red-vented Bulbul. If you see any of the species mentioned above, please fill out a report form. See link below

Notes: Originally from South America, Monk Parakeets have established permanent colonies in cities throughout the United States. They survive our winters well, as they can be found as far north as New England. The adult Monk Parakeet has a green back with gray throat and face, and blue flight feathers. It was given its common name of Monk Parakeet because its gray face appears to be peeking out of a green monk's hood. They may be found most easily close to their nesting sites, which are quite obvious. In their native lowlands of South America they construct their nests in tall trees, but in the United States they prefer using powerline towers.
- Susan Billetdeaux