- Amazona vittata
Puerto Rican Parrot is Critically Endangered
Description
An almost entirely green parrot with a white eye-ring, red forehead and two-toned blue primaries as distinguishing features.
Identification
The most problematic feature is introduction of several parrot species. Among these, Red-crowned Parrot is probably the most similar species, with a larger red area in the head that covers much further back on the head, and with a red patch on the outer secondaries.
Distribution and Habitat
Currently limited to the mountains around the El Yunque park in Puerto Rico. Formerly in most forested areas of Puerto Rico and on nearby Culebra.
Taxonomy
Currently monotypic after the subspecies on Culebra became extinct.
Conservation Concerns
This is one of the rarest birds on the planet due to a variety of factors including habitat destruction, persecution by farmers, and trapping for the pet trade. In addition to the wild population there is a captive breeding program. However, recent results indicate that the current range never was good breeding habitat, and that the species will never be able to survive in the wild unless it is reintroduced in other parts of the island, and in particular into lowland forests.
A count early in 2007 estimated the total population (captive + wild) to be around 230 birds. The breeding season in 2007 was the best on record for the captive population, so the number is certainly higher at the moment. In addition, release has started in a second location in Puerto Rico, in an area that is currently closed to the public.
External Links
The following link will search for images of this species in the Gallery; none was found at the time of editing:
The following link is the official site for the Puerto Rican Parrot recovery program Link
