Brotogeris

Brotogeris is a genus of small neotropical parrots in the subfamily Arinae of the family Psittacidae. Species in this genus are commonly known as parakeets and occur from southern Mexico through Central America and much of South America, with records of others in the Caribbean. They are typically bright green, have short tails, and display distinct wing markings that may include yellow, white, or blue patches. Adults measure roughly 11 to 14 centimeters in length and show a characteristic compact, slender build.

Taxonomy and species: The genus comprises several species, with the yellow-chevroned parakeet (Brotogeris chiriri) being among the best known in the pet trade. Other Brotogeris species are distributed across tropical forests and savannas, often occupying canopy and subcanopy layers. Like other parakeets, they are social and usually observed in small flocks outside the breeding season.

Habitat and behavior: Brotogeris parrots inhabit a variety of wooded environments, including forest edges, secondary growth, and urban green spaces. They feed on seeds, fruits, buds, and nectar, foraging in flocks and traveling long distances in search of resources. They nest in tree cavities, with both parents incubating the eggs and feeding the young. Clutch size is typically several eggs, and fledging occurs after a few weeks.

Relationship with humans and conservation: Brotogeris species are popular in captivity due to their bright plumage and social nature, but they require careful care and enrichment. Some populations have established feral colonies in urban areas where introduced. Conservation status varies by species, ranging from least concern to threatened in fragmented habitats; habitat loss remains a general threat to many members of the genus.