These parrots are numerous on Peninsula Valdes. During the mating season in spring and summer they can be seen on cliffs, making their nests.
Burrowing parrots prefer to opt for settlement in deserted places on the rocks. The bird body length is 45 cm and the tail is 24 cm long. The bulk of feathers are painted in olive-brown with a brown tinge on the trunk and green on the head and wings. The abdomen is yellow decorated with red spots. The throat and chest are a grayish-brown colour. The colour of females is brighter than males.
Burrowing parrots use their powerful beaks to dig a hole for a nest. The length of these holes can be up to a meter and may also be extended. The female lays an average of 2-5 white eggs and incubates those for 25 days. Chicks begin an independent life somewhere after 55-60 days.
Practical info
When is the best time to observe Burrowing Parrots in Argentina?
Burrowing Parrots in Argentina are best observed between September and February, during the breeding season in spring and summer. They create nests on cliffs in Peninsula Valdes and can be seen most actively in the early morning or late afternoon. Show more
What regions in Argentina have Burrowing Parrots?
Burrowing Parrots reside in various regions of Argentina, including Chubut, Patagonia, and Peninsula Valdes. They make nests in deserted areas on rocks and use their burrowing behavior to create holes. Peninsula Valdes is considered the top destination to observe Burrowing Parrots. Show more
How do Burrowing Parrots communicate with humans?
Burrowing Parrots have different vocalizations such as squawks, whistles, and screeches. These birds have body language, such as head bobbing and feather fluffing, to express themselves. Although they are tame and friendly with humans, always remember that they are still wild animals and should be treated with caution and respect. Show more
What is unique about Burrowing Parrots in Argentina?
Burrowing Parrots have distinct characteristics and behavior, such as creating burrows for nests which may reach up to a meter in length. They are also renowned for their amiability, unusual for wild parrots. Moreover, their olive-brown body and green wings and head, highlighted with yellow and red on the abdomen, make them visually captivating. Show more
What is the Burrowing Parrot's process of constructing nests?
Burrowing Parrots use their remarkably strong beaks to excavate burrows in the ground for their nests. These nests can be as long as one meter (or longer). The female burrowing parrots incubate a clutch of 2-5 white eggs for 25 days, and the fledging chicks start to become visibly independent after 55-60 days. The Burrowing Parrot's unique burrowing behavior is important to their survival and is one of the distinguishing features that make them fascinating to watch in their natural habitat. Show more
