The Mountain Parakeet

Bolborhynchus aurifrons

The Mountain Parakeet, Bolborhynchus aurifrons, has been seen on Alto Andino tours from the altitude of (approx.) 2,800 to 4,400 meters above sea level within the Province of Parinacota in northern Chile. Perched on a Dunalia spinosa bush, this bird was photographed in December 2001 just below Putre.

Tips on finding the parakeets:
1. Listen for what sounds like 10 budgies, and there will be 5 mountain parakeets.
2. Often perched en masse in bushes, they look like Christmas tree ornaments.
3. When the pears ripen at the lower levels of the Province, you'll find them near Copaquilla.
4. Check out steep walls above cushion bogs and rivers.

© B. Knapton back to birding itineraries