Habitat use and local harvesting practices of the Orange-fronted Parakeet (Aratinga canicularis) in western Mexico

Abstract

Orange-fronted Parakeets Aratinga canicularis are widespread and common across their range. However, the ecology and habitat use are scarcely known. Observations of the nest site characteristics, diet, flock size, habitat movements, and local harvesting practices are reported in this study for Colima, Mexico, a site where the species occurs year-round. Characteristics of termitaria nest sites in deciduous oak and tropical semi-deciduous forests were compared. Nesting site selection did not differ between vegetation types, but some preference for higher and larger termitaria is suggested. Availability of suitable nesting sites is apparently not a limiting factor. Anecdotal reports from the local people and empirical observations of eggs and hatchlings by the author suggest a three-month extension of the breeding period to what is reported in the literature. A. canicularis was observed foraging on 25 plant species. Flock size and activity increased during the rainy season, and were reduced during the beginning of the dry season. Observations and movement in semi-deciduous vegetation were common throughout the study, coinciding with the presence of constant although scattered fruit availability. People in the community see the harvesting and selling of parakeets as an additional source of income, in particular during the dry season when agricultural-related income activities are at their minimum. However, the associated mortality and nest-site destruction may pose a threat to the species in this region.