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This interesting species was first described by P.L.S. Muller in 1776 in a supplement to his German translation (1773) of Carolus Linnaeus’ Systema Naturae published in 1753. It is not clear from whom Muller obtained his information about this species. Rosemary Low (2002) suggests that subspecies may exist, but to my knowledge no subspecies has yet been described even though there presently appear to be two distinct populations of this uniquely colored parrot.
These Pionus parrots are typically sighted in northern South America—from the mountains along the Colombia-Venezuela northwestern border eastward to northeastern Brazil. Over the years, various parroters have reported that the population is non-contiguous; that is, there are large flocks along the Orinoco River extending into the river’s delta area as well as flocks in western Venezuela. One writer has reported seeing Dusky parrots flying over the ocean to reach Trinidad and Tobago.
To get a better idea of where these two populations reside, see the online map located at http://users.pandora.be/andre.bastiaens/PionusFuscus.html
Dusky parrots are typically sighted at altitudes ranging from sea level to approximately 1800 meters. As is the case with most species of Pionus parrots, the information provided by some of the most respected writers tends to vary widely. For example, Hilty says that they live at altitudes of 0–1000 meters in Venezuela. Juniper and Parr as well as Stotz find them from 0–1800 meters while Rosemary Low places them at 0–500 meters. Roger Sweeney reports them as living from 600–1000 meters.
Because climate is also a function of altitude, I can say that these parrots are comfortable in both temperate and tropical climates. They appear to be comfortable with both high and low relative humidity in their wild environments.
Little else is recorded about the natural life cycle of this species.
Dusky parrots are beautiful parrots. Their name is probably derived from the dark colored wing and back feathers. However, the rest of the parrot is a dazzling combination of pink, rose, light blue, aquamarine blue, raspberry, and cream. It is difficult to make a good photograph of these parrots because much of their coloration is extremely subtle; one comment I often hear from new owners is their realization that in full sunlight, healthy parrots literally sparkle with iridescent colors.
Vital statistics for Dusky parrots can be a little confusing. Those who work primarily with captive parrots report their average length as 22–24 centimeters while those working with wild parrots report an average length of 26 centimeters.
Similarly, average weights are reported by some authors as 195 grams and 225 grams by others.
Owners of Dusky parrots are often fiercely loyal to this species. Dusky parrots are intelligent and inquisitive parrots and, in captivity as well as the wild, delightful creatures.
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