Monk Parakeet (also known as the Quaker Parrot)

This feather belongs to the Monk Parakeet, a medium-sized green parrot with a greyish breast. They are famous for being the only parrot species that builds large, communal stick nests rather than nesting in tree cavities.

Vibrant lime green transitioning to a yellowish-green center. The outer edge shows a subtle blue-green structural tint. The base transitions into a neutral white/grey downy section.

Pennaceous at the distal end (top) for weatherproofing; plumulaceous (downy) at the proximal base for insulation; barbs are well-structured with intact hooklets.

The rachis is thin and pale, matching the yellowish-green center of the vane. Barbs are densely packed, branching at roughly 45-degree angles from the central shaft.

Smooth and glossy on the pennaceous portion with a soft, silky feel at the downy base. The surface exhibits a slight waxy sheen characteristic of Psittacines.

Body feather, likely originating from the breast or flank. The slight curve and structural density suggest it covers the core of the bird.

Tri-color gradient (white base, yellow-green center, lime-green tip), small size, and the distinct 'parrot green' structural coloration.

Lowland forests, shrublands, and increasingly common in urban and suburban parks/gardens due to their adaptability.

Native to temperate and subtropical regions of Argentina and surrounding South American countries; widely introduced and established in North America (USA) and Europe.

Primary consumer (seeds and fruit); in introduced ranges, they are sometimes considered pests to agriculture or electrical infrastructure.

Rose-ringed Parakeet (larger feathers, uniform green), Green-cheeked Conure (darker greens, different size scale).

Monk parakeets are incredibly social birds that build complex ‘apartment-style’ stick nests that can house dozens of pairs and weigh hundreds of pounds.

Popular in the pet trade as 'Quaker Parrots' due to their intelligence and talking ability; historically used in indigenous South American ornamentation.

Look for these beneath large, messy stick nests in trees or on utility poles, particularly in early autumn during the post-breeding molt.

Excellent condition. The vanes are intact with no visible fault bars or parasite damage, suggesting a healthy molt.