General Information

The White-capped Pionus, also known as the White-crowned Parrot, is a relatively small and common domestically kept bird.  In the wild its range extends from Mexico south to Panama, and can be found in a variety of habitats.  The White-capped Pionus feeds in flocks comprised of 30 to 50 individuals, sometimes wandering beyond the breeding range after nesting is finished.

Physical Description

The White-capped Pionus is usually between 9 and 11 inches in length and weighs around 220 g.  The White-capped is considered the smallest pionus.  Their name is derived from the small white patch that adorns the head of the male.  Males are generally larger than females and have a darker blue hue.  In females, the blue plumage fades into scaling on the lower breast and their shoulder patches are duller.  The White-capped Pionus’ undertail, like those of all pionus, is bright red, and has speckled brown patches on its dorsal wings.  There is also a blue lacing around its neck and along the edge of its tail feathers. 

Diet

Its diet encompasses various seeds and nuts as well as fruit and corn, which have made it a pest creature to many farmers and plantations. 

Habitat

These parrots are native to Central and South America, and have a range from Southwestern Mexico down across Panama.  They are primarily found in lowland tropical forests as well as oak and pine forests up to 6000 feet in elevation.  White-capped Pionus frequently nest in tree cavities or hollow palm stubs.

Reproduction

A female White-capped Pionus will lay between 3 and 6 eggs per clutch in an unlined nest.  In North America, the White-capped usually breeds in the spring, from approximately February or March to June or July.