General

Red-masked Parakeet: Fairly large green parakeet with bright red on head, at bend in wing and on thighs. Sexes similar. Juvenile has reduced amounts of red and brown iris rather than orange.

Range and Habitat

Red-masked Parakeet: In its native range found throughout western Ecuador into northern Peru. Populations of escaped captive birds found in Los Angeles, California. Utilizes a wide variety of lowland habitats with a preference for arid and semiarid scrub and cacti habitats.

Breeding and Nesting

Red-masked Parakeet: Little known. Nests in tree cavities and other cavities. Lays three to four white eggs during the rainy season, from January to March in Ecuador.

Foraging and Feeding

Red-masked Parakeet: Little known. Travels in groups of 2 to 12 birds, sometimes many more at communal roosts or prolific food supplies. Moves seasonally over long distances to find crops of fruits.

Vocalization

Red-masked Parakeet: Loud screeching "screeet" often given as strident choruses by groups.

Similar Species

Red-masked Parakeet: Mitred, Red-fronted, and White-eyed Parakeets all have much less red on the head and wing.