ExploreBirds

Monk Parakeet

Myiopsitta monachus

Monk Parakeets are cheerful green birds that love to chatter and play. They build big nests in trees and are often seen in flocks, making them a fun sight in parks and gardens.

Habitat: Urban areas

Appearance

The Monk Parakeet has a distinctive gray head and chest, contrasting sharply with its bright green body and wings. Its primary flight feathers display a beautiful blue tint, and it possesses a short, pointed tail. This unique combination of gray and green makes it stand out.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPsittaciformesFamilyPsittacidaeGenusMyiopsitta
Monk Parakeet
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Monk Parakeet

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

A single Monk Parakeet nest can be as big as a small car and weigh several hundred pounds!

Monk Parakeets are the only parrot species that build large stick nests instead of nesting in tree holes!

Monk Parakeets can live for over 20 years, even in the wild, which is super long for a bird!

These clever birds often choose city parks, power poles, and buildings as places to call home.

Special abilities

Ability

Stick Architect

Monk Parakeets can construct massive, multi-chambered stick nests that allow many families to live together for protection and warmth.

Ability

Adaptable Survivor

Monk Parakeets have a versatile diet and can adjust to various food sources, helping them thrive in diverse environments, including cities.

Ability

Mimicry Master

Monk Parakeets have complex vocal cords that help them imitate a wide range of sounds, including human words and phrases.

Ability

Cold Weather Resistor

Monk Parakeets can endure surprisingly cold climates because their communal nests provide excellent insulation and shelter.

Measurements & details

Length
28-30 cm
Wingspan
48-52 cm
Weight
0.1-0.14 kg
Lifespan
15-20 years
Top Speed
55 km/h
Clutch Size
4-8
Incubation
23-24 days
Migration Distance
0 km

Diet & Feeding

A generalist feeder, they enjoy seeds, fruits, flowers, and even some insects.

Age differences: Young birds are fed regurgitated food by their parents, gradually transitioning to solid adult foods.

Primary Foods

  • Seeds
  • Fruits
  • Flower buds
  • Nuts
  • Agricultural crops
  • Insects

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Monk ParrotQuaker Parrot

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Enjoy watching birds from a distance and don't try to touch or catch them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Monk Parakeet?

28-30 cm

What is Monk Parakeet's wingspan?

48-52 cm

How much does Monk Parakeet weigh?

0.1-0.14 kg

How long does Monk Parakeet live?

15-20 years

How fast can Monk Parakeet move?

55 km/h

What does Monk Parakeet eat?

A generalist feeder, they enjoy seeds, fruits, flowers, and even some insects.

Where is Monk Parakeet usually found?

Urban areas

How does Monk Parakeet hunt?

Foraging

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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