20 Types of Parrots in Hawaii (With Pictures and Identification)

Hawaii’s warm climate, lush vegetation, and year-round food sources have allowed a surprising variety of escaped parrots to form thriving wild flocks. These brightly colored birds, originally kept as pets, now glide over city parks, coastal trees, and residential neighborhoods, creating an unexpected birdwatching experience across the islands. Their calls, colors, and lively behavior add a tropical energy to the skies.

Most of Hawaii’s parrots are found on Oʻahu, where tall palms, flowering trees, and urban forests offer ideal roosting and feeding sites. From noisy parakeets to striking Amazon parrots, each species brings its own personality and charm. Birdwatchers often spot them at sunrise and sunset as flocks move between feeding areas and communal roosts.

This guide showcases 20 types of parrots seen in Hawaii, complete with identification notes, behavior insights, and distribution details. Whether you are observing from a backyard, exploring botanical gardens, or scanning treetops near the coast, these parrots offer a colorful addition to Hawaii’s birdlife and an exciting opportunity for nature enthusiasts.

Different Types of Parrots Found in Hawaii

Rose-ringed Parakeet (Ring-necked Parakeet)

The Rose-ringed Parakeet is a medium-sized parrot about 15–17 inches long, easily recognized by its bright green plumage, long tapering tail, and red beak. Males show a black-and-pink ring around the neck, while females and juveniles lack this marking. Its sharp, repetitive screech is often heard before the bird is seen.

This species is active and confident, frequently forming large, noisy flocks that move between feeding and roosting sites. It feeds on fruits, seeds, buds, and blossoms, and often visits orchards and flowering trees. Their flight is fast and direct, with flocks creating a loud chorus as they travel.

In Hawaii, Rose-ringed Parakeets are firmly established on Oʻahu and especially numerous on Kauaʻi. They roost in tall palms, ironwood groves, and large shade trees in city parks and hotel landscapes. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in both urban and semi-rural environments.

These parakeets have become a familiar part of the local soundscape. Their loud calls, social behavior, and bright coloration make them one of the most visible and easily identified parrots in the islands.

Red-masked Parakeet (Cherry-headed Conure)

The Red-masked Parakeet is a vibrant bird about 12–14 inches long, known for its bright green body paired with a deep red head and forehead. Its pale eye-ring and occasional red patches on the wings help distinguish it from other conures. Its vocalizations are loud and harsh, often echoing across neighborhoods at dawn and dusk.

This species is social and curious, often perching high in trees while foraging for fruits, seeds, flowers, and nuts. They travel in small to medium flocks and show strong pair bonding within groups. Their flight is swift and agile, making them easy to spot as they move across the skyline.

On Oʻahu, Red-masked Parakeets are well established, particularly around Honolulu and surrounding suburban areas. They prefer tall palms, banyan trees, and coastal vegetation for roosting. They also frequent parks, golf courses, and residential areas with abundant fruiting plants.

Their bright coloring and loud calls make them one of the most recognizable parrots in Hawaii. They often mix with other introduced parakeets, creating diverse flocks in urban and coastal habitats.

Mitred Parakeet

The Mitred Parakeet is a relatively large conure, about 15 inches long, with green plumage accented by variable red markings on the face, crown, and sometimes the wings. Individuals show different amounts of red, making each bird slightly unique. It has a long tail and strong flight, often producing chattering calls midair.

These parrots are highly active and travel in energetic flocks. They spend their days searching for fruits, seeds, berries, and flowers, often feeding in the canopy of large trees. They communicate constantly with sharp calls and whistles, maintaining contact with flock members.

In Hawaii, Mitred Parakeets are most common on Oʻahu, where flocks are seen moving across residential areas, botanical gardens, and open parks. They roost in tall palms and large shade trees, sometimes forming communal groups with other conure species.

Their bold behavior and frequent vocalizations make them a striking presence in the landscape. The combination of green plumage and scattered red markings makes them easy to identify once spotted.

White-eyed Parakeet

The White-eyed Parakeet is a medium-sized parrot measuring 13–15 inches, recognized by its bright green plumage, pale eye-ring, and occasional red patches on the wings and head. Its long tail and clean, uniform coloration help distinguish it from other similar species. Its calls are sharp and repetitive, often heard from treetops.

This species is social and typically found in flocks. It feeds on fruits, seeds, nuts, and buds, showing a preference for large flowering and fruiting trees. Its behavior is lively and vocal, with groups staying in constant communication while foraging or flying.

In Hawaii, White-eyed Parakeets exist in smaller but stable populations on Oʻahu. They are often observed near botanical gardens, coastal groves, and neighborhoods with mature trees. They roost communally in tall palms and large canopy trees.

Their bright plumage and distinctive eye-ring make them an attractive sight. Though less numerous than other parakeets, they are gradually becoming more visible in island landscapes.

Yellow-chevroned Parakeet

The Yellow-chevroned Parakeet is a small, slender parrot about 8–9 inches long, mostly green with bright yellow patches on the wings that show clearly in flight. It has a pointed tail and a playful expression, and its calls consist of high, rapid chirps that carry well over long distances.

These birds are energetic and often travel in mixed flocks with other parakeet species. They feed on seeds, flower nectar, fruits, and occasionally ornamental plants in urban areas. Their flight is fast and fluttery, often accompanied by a series of excited calls.

In Hawaii, Yellow-chevroned Parakeets are found primarily on Oʻahu, where they frequent city parks, hotel gardens, and coastal areas with dense vegetation. They roost in groups in tall palms and readily adapt to environments influenced by human activity.

Their small size and bright wing markings make them easy to recognize, especially when they fly. Their lively calls and social behavior add to the island’s growing chorus of exotic parrot species.

Red-crowned Amazon

The Red-crowned Amazon is a robust parrot measuring about 12–13 inches long, easily recognized by its bright green body and vivid red forehead. Its wings show splashes of blue and red, and its expressive eyes stand out against a pale eye-ring. Its loud, rolling calls are among the most distinctive parrot sounds heard in Hawaii.

This species is highly social and forms tight-knit flocks, often communicating with a range of squawks, chatter, and whistles. It feeds on fruits, seeds, nuts, and blossoms, frequently visiting tall flowering trees in urban neighborhoods. Its flight is strong and direct, with flocks moving together in synchronized patterns.

In Hawaii, Red-crowned Amazons are established mainly on Oʻahu, particularly around Honolulu and the surrounding residential areas. They roost in tall palms and old shade trees, and their presence is especially noticeable in early morning and late afternoon.

Their vibrant colors and charismatic behavior make them one of the most eye-catching parrots in the islands. They often mingle with lilac-crowned and other Amazon parrots, creating mixed-species flocks.

Lilac-crowned Amazon

The Lilac-crowned Amazon is a medium-sized parrot about 12 inches long with green plumage, a lilac-purple crown, and a red or orange patch on the forehead. Its cheeks often show bluish tones, giving the species a soft, pastel appearance. Its call is a loud, clear squawk that carries across long distances.

These parrots are active and intelligent, moving through treetops in small social groups. They feed on seeds, fruits, and nuts and show a strong preference for large, mature trees. Their behavior is bold yet cautious, and they maintain close pair bonds with mates.

In Hawaii, Lilac-crowned Amazons occur mainly on Oʻahu, where they coexist with Red-crowned Amazons in suburban landscapes. They prefer tall ficus trees, palms, and flowering trees for feeding and roosting. Their populations are smaller but stable.

Their subtle lavender crown and gentle facial coloring make them easy to distinguish from the more brightly marked Red-crowned Amazon. Their frequent vocalizations add to the lively parrot soundscape in the region.

Blue-fronted Amazon

The Blue-fronted Amazon is a striking parrot about 13 inches long, named for the vivid blue patch on its forehead. It also displays yellow on the face and bright green plumage across the body. Its bulky build and powerful beak make it stand out among other Amazon species. Its call is a deep, resonant screech delivered loudly and confidently.

Behaviorally, this species is assertive and social, often foraging in pairs or small groups. They feed on fruits, seeds, nuts, and blossoms, using their strong beaks to crack tough shells. They are expressive birds that communicate through squawks, whistles, and body postures.

In Hawaii, Blue-fronted Amazons exist in smaller introduced populations on Oʻahu. They frequent urban trees, botanical gardens, and residential areas with abundant food sources. Their numbers are not as large as other introduced Amazons but appear to be slowly growing.

Their vibrant facial coloration makes them easy to recognize even from a distance. When mixed with other Amazons, the blue forehead is the clearest identification marker.

Black-hooded Parakeet (Nanday Conure)

The Black-hooded Parakeet is a slender parrot about 12 inches long, instantly recognizable by its black head, bright green body, and blue-tinted tail. Its bare white facial skin contrasts sharply with the dark hood, making identification straightforward. Its calls are loud, raspy, and frequently repeated during flight.

These birds are active and curious, often forming medium-sized flocks that chatter constantly. They feed on seeds, fruits, nuts, and sometimes ornamental plants around urban landscapes. Their flight is fast and direct, with strong wingbeats and persistent vocalizations.

In Hawaii, Nanday Conures are most commonly seen on Oʻahu. They favor coastal parks, open neighborhoods, and areas with tall roosting trees. They adapt easily to human-dominated environments and may mix with other conure species during feeding.

Their bold coloration and unmistakable black hood make them one of the most visually distinctive parakeets in the islands. Their loud, excited calls often reveal their presence before they are seen.

Fischer’s Lovebird

Fischer’s Lovebird is a small parrot, typically 5–6 inches long, known for its bright green body, orange face, and vivid blue rump. Its compact size, rounded wings, and playful expression make it especially appealing. Its call is a sharp, high-pitched chirp repeated frequently during social interactions.

This species is highly social and forms tight flocks, often engaging in affectionate behaviors such as mutual preening. They feed on seeds, fruits, berries, and nectar, frequently exploring gardens and landscaped areas. Their flight is quick and fluttery, with groups staying closely coordinated.

In Hawaii, Fischer’s Lovebirds appear in localized populations on Oʻahu, mostly around residential areas and parks with flowering shrubs. They favor warm, open habitats with access to fruiting plants and garden vegetation.

Their small size and vibrant colors make them easy to spot once they gather in a flock. Their energetic movements and constant chattering give them a lively presence in the Hawaiian parrot community.

Peach-faced Lovebird

The Peach-faced Lovebird is a small, vibrant parrot measuring about 5–6 inches long, known for its green body, blue rump, and warm peach-to-rose-colored face. Its compact shape, short tail, and expressive eyes make it easy to recognize. Its vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched chirps delivered in rapid bursts.

These lovebirds are playful, social, and often seen in small flocks. They feed on seeds, fruits, blossoms, and sometimes garden plants. Their behavior is energetic and curious, frequently exploring rooftops, power lines, and flowering shrubs. They communicate constantly, keeping their flock closely connected.

In Hawaii, Peach-faced Lovebirds are found primarily on Oʻahu in localized pockets where escaped birds have formed stable groups. They favor residential neighborhoods, parks, and areas with abundant ornamental plants. Their presence is most noticeable near flowering or fruiting trees.

Their bright faces and lively personalities make them stand out among Hawaii’s smaller parrot species. They often perch visibly in open areas, making them easy to observe once a flock is located.

Budgerigar (Budgie)

The Budgerigar is a small parrot about 7 inches long, best known for its bright green and yellow plumage with black barring on the wings and back. Escaped domesticated individuals may show blue, white, or other color variations. Its high, quick chirping call is familiar to many bird keepers and easily recognized in the wild.

Budgies are active and fast-moving, forming small flocks that forage for seeds, grasses, and leaves. They are agile fliers, often darting quickly between perches. Their social nature keeps them vocal throughout the day, especially when feeding or roosting.

In Hawaii, Budgerigars appear in small, localized populations, mostly on Oʻahu. They are typically seen around open fields, golf courses, grassy parks, and suburban areas where seed sources are abundant. Their populations fluctuate depending on climate and food availability.

Their bright colors and quick, fluttery flight make them easy to spot, especially when traveling in small groups. Although less common than other parakeets, they remain a charming part of Hawaii’s introduced birdlife.

Cockatiel

The Cockatiel is a slender parrot about 12–13 inches long, recognized by its gray body, long tail, and bright yellow face adorned with orange cheek patches. The crest on top of its head rises and lowers depending on mood, making it one of the most expressive parrots in Hawaii. Its vocalizations include whistles and soft chirps.

Cockatiels are gentle and sociable, often moving in pairs or small flocks. They feed on grass seeds, fruits, and buds, and they frequently forage along open areas and park landscapes. Their flight is smooth with long glides, and they often perch visibly on power lines and tall shrubs.

In Hawaii, cockatiels are found mainly in small, scattered populations on Oʻahu. They favor open fields, agricultural edges, and suburban parks where seed sources are available. Although not as numerous as conures or Amazons, their flocks remain stable.

Their expressive crests and pleasant whistling calls make them easy to identify once spotted. They add a gentle, distinctive presence to the island’s mix of introduced parrot species.

Green-cheeked Conure

The Green-cheeked Conure is a small parrot about 10 inches long, with a green body, maroon belly patch, and blue-tinted flight feathers. It has a grayish head and a scalloped pattern across the chest. Its voice is softer and less harsh than many conure species, consisting of sharp but muted chirps.

These birds are active and affectionate, typically moving in small flocks that stay close together. They feed on fruits, seeds, berries, and blossoms and often visit bird-friendly neighborhoods with dense vegetation. Their behavior is agile and playful, with frequent acrobatic movements among branches.

In Hawaii, Green-cheeked Conures are present in localized groups on Oʻahu. They prefer residential areas, botanical gardens, and wooded parks with a mix of fruiting trees and sheltered roosts. Their smaller flocks make them less conspicuous than other conures.

Their subtle coloration and quieter calls make them appealing to observe. They are often identified by their maroon belly patch and graceful, coordinated flock movements.

Quaker Parrot (Monk Parakeet)

The Quaker Parrot is a medium-sized parrot about 11–12 inches long, featuring green plumage, a pale gray face, and a scalloped gray breast. Its sturdy build and square tail give it a distinctive silhouette. Its voice is a mix of chattering, squawks, and mimicry, making it one of the more vocal introduced species.

This species is unique among parrots for building large, communal stick nests rather than using tree cavities. These nests may be shared by multiple pairs and can become quite large. Quaker Parrots feed on seeds, fruits, buds, and agricultural grains and adapt easily to human-made landscapes.

In Hawaii, Quaker Parrots are found in small populations on Oʻahu. They frequent parks, coastal areas, and suburban neighborhoods, especially where tall palms or utility structures offer nesting sites. Their colony nests are often more noticeable than the birds themselves.

Their social structure, constant vocalizations, and distinctive plumage make them easy to identify. Although not as widespread as other parakeets, they contribute a unique nesting behavior to Hawaii’s introduced parrot community.

White-winged Parakeet

The White-winged Parakeet is a small to medium parrot, about 10–11 inches long, with bright green plumage and distinctive white patches on the wings that flash clearly during flight. Its long tail and pointed wings give it a sleek, agile appearance. Its vocalizations consist of sharp, repetitive chirps that are often heard before the bird is seen.

These parakeets are highly social and usually travel in small to medium flocks. They feed on fruits, seeds, flower buds, and nectar, frequently visiting ornamental and fruiting trees in urban landscapes. Their behavior is active and curious, and they tend to stay high in the canopy while foraging.

In Hawaii, White-winged Parakeets are established in small populations on Oʻahu. They favor city parks, botanical gardens, and neighborhoods with tall palms and broadleaf trees. Their numbers are not as large as some other introduced species, but sightings are becoming more common.

The bright white wing patches make them easy to identify in flight. Their lively calls and cohesive flock movements make them a dynamic presence in the island treetops.

Canary-winged Parakeet

The Canary-winged Parakeet is a slender parrot about 8–9 inches long, mostly green with bold yellow-and-white patches on the wings. Its tail is long and pointed, and its face features a gentle expression. In flight, the yellow wing patches are especially noticeable, separating it from similar small parakeets.

This species is active and vocal, traveling in loose flocks that communicate with high, ringing chirps. They feed on seeds, fruits, nectar, and buds, often exploring landscaped areas and flowering trees. Their agile movements and fluttery flight make them fun to watch.

In Hawaii, Canary-winged Parakeets are found in small established groups on Oʻahu. They frequent residential districts, roadside plantings, and open parks where food sources are plentiful. They also roost in palms and tall ornamental trees.

Their bright wing patches and energetic flock behavior make them easy to spot, especially at dawn and dusk when they move between feeding and roosting sites.

Crimson-fronted Parakeet

The Crimson-fronted Parakeet is a medium-sized parrot, about 12 inches long, with a mostly green body and a vivid red forehead that extends above the beak. It also shows red on the bend of the wings and occasionally on the thighs. Its call is loud and harsh, fitting the typical vocal style of many conure species.

These parrots are very social and often appear in lively, chattering flocks. They feed on fruits, seeds, buds, and blossoms and may occasionally visit agricultural areas. Their flight is fast and direct, accompanied by constant communication between flock members.

In Hawaii, Crimson-fronted Parakeets are present in small but stable populations on Oʻahu. They are most often seen in suburban areas, coastal parks, and groves of large ornamental trees. They may also join mixed flocks with Mitred or Red-masked Parakeets.

Their bold red forehead is the clearest identification marker. When perched among foliage, the splash of red makes them stand out from other green parrots.

Blue-crowned Parakeet

The Blue-crowned Parakeet is a medium-sized parrot, around 14 inches long, recognized by its green body and striking blue head. The blue coloration extends from the crown down to the cheeks, making it one of the most visually distinctive conures. Its call is a rough, rolling squawk commonly heard in flight.

This species is intelligent and social, often forming small flocks that forage together. They feed on fruits, seeds, nuts, and flowers and are known for their curious behavior. They frequently explore parks, gardens, and open wooded areas.

In Hawaii, Blue-crowned Parakeets occur in small introduced populations on Oʻahu. They prefer areas with tall trees, fruiting plants, and sheltered roosting sites and may blend with other conure flocks in shared feeding areas.

Their vivid blue head makes identification straightforward, even from a distance. Their personality and coloration make them a favorite among birdwatchers observing Hawaii’s parrot community.

Sun Conure (Small, Escapee Groups)

The Sun Conure is a brightly colored parrot about 12 inches long, famous for its brilliant yellow body, orange face, and green wingtips. Its loud, piercing calls and radiant plumage make it hard to miss. Even small escapee groups leave a strong visual impression due to their intense coloring.

These parrots are highly social, energetic, and playful. They feed on fruits, seeds, nuts, and flowers and often explore landscaped areas when present. Their communication is constant, with sharp, repetitive calls used to maintain flock cohesion.

In Hawaii, Sun Conures are not considered established but appear occasionally as escapees on Oʻahu. Small groups may persist for short periods in warm urban areas, especially near parks and botanical gardens with abundant food sources.

Their vivid coloration makes them one of the most striking parrots ever observed in Hawaii, even though stable populations have not formed. Their rarity adds excitement for bird enthusiasts who manage to spot them.

FAQs About Parrots in Hawaii

Why are there so many parrot species in Hawaii?

Hawaii has no native parrots, but many escaped or released pet birds have adapted to the islands’ warm climate and abundant food sources. Over time, some species formed stable breeding populations, especially on Oʻahu where urban trees and year-round flowering plants support them.

Are parrots in Hawaii considered invasive?

Some species, such as the Rose-ringed Parakeet on Kauaʻi, are considered invasive due to crop damage and competition with native wildlife. Others exist in smaller numbers and have minimal ecological impact. Their status varies by species and island.

Where can I see parrots in Hawaii?

Most introduced parrots are found on Oʻahu, especially in Honolulu, coastal parks, large neighborhoods with mature trees, and botanical gardens. Kauaʻi also hosts large flocks of Rose-ringed Parakeets. Other islands have only occasional sightings or small temporary groups.

What do wild parrots in Hawaii eat?

Wild parrots feed on fruits, seeds, buds, blossoms, and nectar. Many species also forage in city parks, hotel landscapes, and residential gardens where ornamental and fruiting trees provide year-round food.

Do parrots in Hawaii build nests or use tree cavities?

Most species nest in natural tree cavities, palm crowns, or gaps in large ornamental trees. One exception is the Quaker Parrot, which builds large communal stick nests—unique among parrots and easily spotted in tall palms or utility structures.

Are wild parrots dangerous or aggressive?

Wild parrots in Hawaii are not dangerous to people. They may be loud and protective of nest sites, but they do not pose physical danger. Their biggest impact is noise, crop feeding, and competition with native birds.

How many parrot species are established in Hawaii?

More than a dozen species are confirmed to have stable or partially stable populations, with additional species appearing as escapees. Oʻahu hosts the greatest diversity, followed by Kauaʻi. Maui and the Big Island have only rare, temporary sightings.

Why do different parrot species form mixed flocks?

Many parakeets and conures share similar diets, roosting preferences, and daily movement patterns. This allows species like Mitred, Red-masked, and Yellow-chevroned parakeets to mingle, increasing flock size and improving predator awareness.

Conclusion

Parrots in Hawaii create one of the most unique birdwatching experiences in the islands, blending a tropical setting with colorful species originally brought from around the world. From loud, social parakeets soaring over Honolulu to the striking Amazons perched in tall palms, these birds have adapted remarkably well to their new environment.

While some species raise ecological concerns, others exist in small, stable populations that add vibrancy to urban and coastal landscapes. Understanding their behaviors, habitats, and distribution helps residents and visitors appreciate how these charismatic parrots have become an unexpected part of Hawaii’s modern ecosystem.