Monk parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) and quaker parrots (Myiopsitta monachus) are two closely related species of parrots that are often confused with one another. However, despite some similarities, they are distinct species with key differences in their physical appearance, behavior, habitat, and more.
Quick Answer
Monk parakeets and quaker parrots are not the same species. While they are closely related and share some characteristics, there are noticeable differences between the two birds in terms of their physical appearance, native habitat, behavior, diet, speech ability, and legal status as pets.
Physical Appearances
One of the most noticeable ways to distinguish monk parakeets from quaker parrots is by looking at their physical appearance.
Size
On average, monk parakeets tend to be slightly larger than quaker parrots. The monks average 11-13 inches (28-33 cm) long with a wingspan around 18 inches (46 cm). Quakers are typically 9-11 inches (23-28cm) in length and have a wingspan of 10-14 inches (25-36 cm).
Coloration
Both species display green feathers, but the colors tend to be brighter and more yellowish on the quaker parrot. Monk parakeets have more subdued green and gray plumage. Monks also lack the quaker’s characteristic grayish-blue feathers on their abdomens.
Forehead
The forehead is one quick way to tell the difference. Monk parakeets have a rounded, sloped forehead. Quaker parrots have a more pronounced forehead shape that gives them a flatter head profile.
Beak
While similar, monk parakeets tend to have a longer, more pointed beak. Quakers have a shorter, blunter beak in comparison.
Tail
Both have long tapered tails, but a monk’s tail is on average an inch or two longer than a quaker’s. Monk tail feathers are also more rounded at the tips.
Native Habitats
Monk parakeets and quaker parrots both originate from South America, but their native ranges do not overlap much within the continent.
Monk Parakeets
The monk parakeet is native to central and southern South America, including Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, and Argentina. They tend to inhabit temperate and subtropical zones.
Quaker Parrots
The quaker parrot originates from more tropical areas of South America, including eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, southern Brazil, and northern Argentina. Their range extends further north than monk parakeets.
Behavior
These two parrots display some behavioral differences in the wild.
Social
While both very social, monk parakeets are more prone to congregating in large, noisy flocks of hundreds of birds. Quaker parrots form smaller flocks typically consisting of 10-30 individuals.
Nesting
One of the monk parakeet’s most unique behaviors is constructing large, elaborate twig nests high up in trees, often with multiple chambers. Quaker parrots nest in tree cavities more typical for parrots.
Vocalizations
Both species are very vocal, but quakers are considered one of the loudest species of parrots. Their high-pitched squawks and screams can be heard from farther distances than the calls of monk parakeets.
Foraging and Feeding
While both eat seeds, fruits, and veggies, monk parakeets more readily feed on flowers and nectar from blossoms. Their longer beak is adapted to obtain nectar.
Diet
In the wild, monk parakeets and quaker parrots have broadly similar diets, but some differences arise based on the specific native vegetation available to them.
Monk Parakeet Diet
- Seeds
- Fruits
- Berries
- Flowers
- Buds
- Nectar
- Vegetables
- Grains
- Insects
Quaker Parrot Diet
- Seeds
- Fruits
- Berries
- Vegetables
- Nuts
- Blossoms
- Insects
When kept as pets, their diets can be nearly identical, focusing on a quality seed mix, pellets, fresh fruits and vegetables.
Speech Ability
Both species are considered excellent talkers, but quakers generally excel at mimicking speech and other noises.
Monk Parakeets
Monk parakeets are one of the better speaking parrot species. They can learn large vocabularies of words and phrases. Their natural calls are described as more melodic sounding.
Quaker Parrots
Quaker parrots stand out for their uncanny ability to precisely mimic speech, sounds, and noises they hear around them. Their natural voice is harsher sounding but allows them to reproduce many tones and sounds.
Legal Status as Pets
Due to some key differences, monk parakeets and quaker parrots have differing legal status when kept as pets in the USA.
Monk Parakeets
In the United States, monk parakeets are banned from being imported or transported across state lines. This stems from their history of rapidly establishing feral populations in areas where escapees or released pets have nested and bred. Most states allow in-state ownership with proper permits.
Quaker Parrots
Quaker parrots remain very popular pets that can be freely bought and sold throughout most of the United States. Although also prone to establishing feral populations, their smaller flocks have had less ecological impact than monk colonies, allowing them to remain legal for ownership and trade.
Key Differences Summary
To summarize the main differences:
Trait | Monk Parakeet | Quaker Parrot |
---|---|---|
Average Size | 11-13 inches long | 9-11 inches long |
Coloration | Subdued green & gray | Brighter green & blue accents |
Forehead Shape | Rounded, sloped | Flatter, more pronounced |
Beak | Longer & more pointed | Shorter & blunter |
Native Range | Central & southern South America | Northern South America |
Flock Size | Large flocks of hundreds | Smaller flocks around 10-30 |
Nesting | Large communal nests in trees | Tree cavities |
Diet | More nectar & blossoms | More nuts & seeds |
Speech Ability | Can mimic words well | Excellent mimicry skills |
Legality as Pet in USA | Restricted/banned in most states | Legal in most states |
Conclusion
So in summary, while monk parakeets and quaker parrots are closely related, they are considered separate parrot species native to different regions of South America. Monk parakeets tend to be larger, have more subtle green plumage, and construct stick nests. Quakers are smaller, have brighter coloration, and greater skills for mimicking speech. Their legal status as pets also differs in the United States. Being able to distinguish between these two popular parrot types can be very useful for aviculturalists and bird enthusiasts alike.