Jaco Parrot

High in the emerald-green canopy of Dominica’s untouched rainforests, the Jaco Parrot (Amazona arausiaca) soars through the humid air, its bright red throat and striking blue face flashing like a jewel against the dense foliage. This remarkable bird, also known as the Red-necked Amazon, is found nowhere else in the world except on the island. Alongside its relative, the Imperial Amazon Parrot, the Jaco Parrot symbolises Dominica’s rich biodiversity and ecological resilience.

As a medium-sized parrot, measuring 16 inches (40 centimeters) in length, the Jaco Parrot is a master of survival in Dominica’s wild landscapes. It plays a vital role in the ecosystem, acting as a seed disperser, ensuring the continual regeneration of the island’s forests. However, habitat destruction, hurricanes, and illegal capture have made it one of the region’s most threatened bird species, placing immense importance on conservation efforts.

A Life in the Canopy: Habitat and Distribution of the Jaco Parrot

The Jaco Parrot is a true rainforest dweller, favoring Dominica’s old-growth forests in its central and northern regions. These birds thrive at elevations of up to 2,600 feet (800 meters), seeking out the tallest trees where they can safely nest and forage.

They are most commonly found in protected areas such as Morne Diablotin National Park, Dominica’s largest forest reserve, and Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity. The Northern Forest Reserve also provides critical habitat for the species, offering sanctuary from human encroachment.

Feeding and Foraging: A Diverse Diet

The Jaco Parrot is an opportunistic feeder, relying on a diverse diet to sustain its energy needs. These parrots primarily consume fruits, especially mangoes, guavas, and wild figs. They also eat seeds, nuts, and berries, using their powerful beaks to crack open tough shells and husks.

Their diet extends to flower nectar and tender leaves, which supplement their nutrition with essential minerals. Occasionally, they are observed chewing on tree bark or consuming small amounts of clay, which scientists believe helps neutralize toxins from certain plant materials. Their feeding habits are crucial to the rainforest, as they act as seed dispersers, ensuring the continual growth and regeneration of the island’s trees.

Breeding and Life Cycle

The Jaco Parrot follows a strict seasonal breeding pattern, nesting between February and May, when food is abundant. These parrots are monogamous, forming lifelong bonds with their mates. Pairs choose tree cavities high above the forest floor to lay their eggs, selecting secure hollows in old trees that provide protection from predators.

A female lays two to three eggs, which she incubates for about 26-28 days while the male supplies food. Once hatched, the chicks remain in the nest for 8-10 weeks, completely dependent on their parents for nourishment and protection. Even after they fledge, young parrots stay close to their parents, learning essential survival skills such as identifying food sources, avoiding predators, and navigating the dense forest canopy.

Threats to the Jaco Parrot

Despite its adaptability, the Jaco Parrot faces multiple threats that have led to population declines. One of the biggest challenges is deforestation, caused by agriculture, logging, and urban expansion. As large trees are removed, parrots lose their natural nesting sites and essential food sources, making survival increasingly difficult.

Hurricanes have also taken a toll on the species, with storms such as Hurricane Maria (2017) destroying massive swaths of forest, wiping out nests, food supplies, and roosting areas. These extreme weather events cause major disruptions, forcing many birds into suboptimal habitats where survival is harder.

Although the illegal pet trade has significantly declined in Dominica, past poaching contributed to population losses. Capturing these birds for export and domestic ownership was once common, with young parrots often taken from the wild before they could properly fend for themselves. Today, strict conservation laws have helped reduce this practice, but vigilance is still needed.

Another significant threat comes from invasive predators, such as rats and snakes, which raid parrot nests, preying on eggs and hatchlings. The presence of these non-native species in Dominica’s forests has created an additional survival challenge for the already vulnerable Jaco Parrot.

Conservation Efforts and Protection

Several conservation programs are in place to safeguard the Jaco Parrot and ensure its survival for future generations. These efforts are driven by government agencies, environmental organizations, and community initiatives focused on protecting the species and its habitat.

Key Conservation Measures:

• Establishment of Protected Areas – Large sections of Dominica’s forests, including Morne Diablotins National Park and Morne Trois Pitons National Park, provide legally protected safe zones for the Jaco Parrot.
• Reforestation Programs – Tree-planting efforts help restore damaged forest areas, increasing available nesting and feeding grounds.
• Monitoring and Research – Scientists track parrot populations, studying their breeding habits and migration patterns to improve conservation strategies.
• Stronger Wildlife Laws – The Forestry, Wildlife & Parks Division enforces strict anti-poaching laws, ensuring that these birds remain in their natural habitat.
• Community Education – Public outreach programs teach locals about the importance of parrot conservation, promoting eco-tourism as an alternative to habitat destruction.

Cultural Significance in Dominica

The Jaco Parrot holds a deep cultural significance in Dominica. It has long been featured in folklore, art, and storytelling, symbolizing the freedom, resilience, and beauty of the island’s natural world.

The parrot has also played a key role in eco-tourism, drawing birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts from around the world to explore Dominica’s forests. With guided birdwatching tours and eco-friendly initiatives, the presence of the Jaco Parrot contributes to the local economy while reinforcing the importance of conservation.

The Future of the Jaco Parrot

With continued conservation efforts, stronger environmental policies, and increased community involvement, the Jaco Parrot has a fighting chance for survival. By protecting Dominica’s rainforests and natural ecosystems, we ensure that this extraordinary bird continues to thrive, soaring through the treetops, calling out in the misty morning air, and filling the island’s wilderness with its dazzling colors.

Safeguarding the Jaco Parrot is more than just saving a species—it is about preserving the soul of Dominica’s forests, the balance of its ecosystem, and the legacy of its natural wonders for generations to come.