Exotic Birds – 1

Introduction

Parrots are among the most beloved bird species in the world, admired by people of all ages for their beauty, charm, and intelligence. Frequently featured in folklore, literature, poetry, and traditional arts, parrots have long symbolized love, creativity, and vivid expression. Known for their bright plumage, curved beaks, and zygodactyl feet (two toes forward and two backward), parrots form a diverse order of more than 350 species, including macaws, Amazons, lorikeets, cockatoos, parakeets, and lovebirds.

Found largely in tropical regions—especially Australia, Central America, and South America—parrots thrive on a varied diet of fruits, flowers, nuts, seeds, and insects. Their impressive ability to mimic sounds, including human speech, and their colorful personalities make many parrot species popular pets.

The Department of Posts celebrates this vibrant avian group through the release of a set of six commemorative stamps, each featuring an exotic and often endangered parrot species from around the world.

1. Blue-throated Macaw (Ara glaucogularis)

Habitat & Distribution

Endemic to Central Bolivia, this rare species inhabits the savanna forest of the Beni region. With only 350–400 individuals remaining in the wild, it is one of the rarest parrots on Earth.

Conservation Status

• IUCN: Critically Endangered
• CITES: Appendix I

Features

The Blue-throated Macaw exhibits:

• Bright yellow underparts
• Turquoise-blue upperparts
• Blue throat and crown
• Unique blue feather lines on the facial skin, which help identify individuals

Notable Characteristics

It resembles the Blue-and-Yellow Macaw but can be distinguished by its blue throat and less contrast between wing feathers.

2. Sun Conure (Aratinga solstitialis)

Habitat & Distribution

Native to northeastern South America, Sun Conures inhabit tropical forests, savannas, and foothills up to 1200 m.

Conservation Status

• IUCN: Endangered

Features

• Bright yellow-orange body
• Green wings and back
• Blue flight feathers
• Highly social, vocal, and gregarious

Juveniles are mostly green, gaining their trademark bright colors as they mature.

6. Magnum Amazon (Amazona oratrix)

Habitat & Distribution

An endangered parrot native to Mexico and northern Central America, typically found in mangrove and riverine forests.

Conservation Status

• IUCN: Endangered
• CITES: Appendix I

Features

• Green body
• Brilliant yellow head
• Red wing patches
• Blackish-blue flight feathers
• Remarkable ability to mimic speech and songs

Wild populations have dramatically declined—from about 50,000 to 7,000 in two decades—largely due to poaching for the pet market.

Conclusion

The commemorative stamp set on Exotic Birds highlights not only the charm and beauty of these rare parrot species but also the urgent need for global conservation. Many of these birds face critical threats from habitat loss and the illegal wildlife trade. By celebrating them through philately, the Department of Posts helps raise awareness about protecting these precious avian treasures.