Feeding ecology of the Green-cheeked Parakeet, Pyrrhura molinae (Psittaciformes, Psittacidae), in a subtropical forest of Argentina

Although there are studies on certain aspects of the feeding ecology several species Neotropical parrots, is scarce ecological information about Pyrrhura molinae – a Psittacidae which widely distributed in South America and abundant Yungas Argentina. For two years (May 2014 to June 2016), composition seasonal variation Green-cheeked Parakeet diet Piedmont forest Jujuy, Argentina were examined. Furthermore, fruiting phenology transects established evaluate food resource availability patterns used by Parakeet. In 214 plant trees, it was found that flower dry fruit highest season, fleshy production peaked wet but these for aged suggest no significant differences availability. The consumption 18 recorded, being Celtis iguanaea (30.73%) Trema micrantha (22.01%) most consumed species. terms items, fruits followed seeds flowers and, lesser extent, nectar leaves. Levins’ niche breadth showed varying levels specialisation amongst seasons, narrower (B = 0.28) indicating during this season. There medium overlap parakeet between seasons (Morisita Index 0.59). We did not find statistically relationship use, expansion contraction Levins items throughout year season demonstrate high flexibility diet. Like other congeners, has flexible could be adjusted resources. These data may contribute design conservation plans its habitat.