Maritaca: green bird lives in flocks and cannot be kept at home

The maritaca is one of the best known birds in Brazil, easily recognized by the predominantly green plumage, the high vocalization and the habit of living in flocks. The popular name, however, does not refer to a single species: depending on the region, it can designate different birds of the family Psittacidae, the same as parrots, parakeets and macaws. Among the species called maritaca is the maracana parakeet (Psittacara leucophthalmus).

The way these birds are called also varies in Brazil: maitaca, baitaca, cocota, humaitá, maitá, sóia and suia are some of the names found in different regions. Despite being common in cities and wooded areas, maritacas are wild birds and cannot be taken out of nature for home breeding.

Physical characteristics vary by species

The maritaca is a medium-sized bird, generally recognized for its green plumage, its curved and strong beak, and the colorful details on the feathers. As this popular name can be used for different species, size, weight and appearance may vary.

For example, the maracana parakeet (Psittacara leucophthalmus), one of the birds known as maritaca, is about 30 to 32 centimeters long. Its plumage is predominantly green, with red feathers on the head, neck and wings, as well as yellowish areas that become more evident during flight.

Another easy detail to observe is the white and featherless region around the eyes, accompanied by the orange iris and the light beak. In young puppies and birds, some red feathers may still not be as evident as in adults.

Not every maritaca is green

Yes, although green is the color most associated with maritacas, the appearance may vary depending on the species. The purple-haired (Pionus fuscus), for example, has predominantly dark plumage, in blue and violet tones, with some reddish details.

In addition to natural differences between species, genetic changes can also change the coloration of feathers. Blueish maritacas have been recorded or with more evident yellow areas, even in normally green species. Regardless of coloration, these birds share characteristics common to psittacids, such as the curved and strong beak.

Flock life and daily habits

The maritacas are sociable birds and usually live in flocks, behavior that is especially evident at dawn and late afternoon. At these times, it is common to observe groups flying over rest areas or moving in search of food, accompanied by the high and strident vocalization characteristic of these birds.

The size of the flocks varies: when there is enough food available, they can gather 30, 40 or even about 50 individuals. Some maritacas use collective dormitories, places where several individuals gather to spend the night.

Species such as the maracana parakeet do not make large seasonal migrations, but can travel extensively in search of food, water and safe places to rest. When they find quiet places, they can go into the water to cool off and take care of the plumage.

Reproduction and nesting

In the breeding season, couples usually move away from the group to nest, that is, choose a place to make the nest and take care of the eggs and cubs. They can use tree hollows, walls, ravines and even protected spaces on roofs and other buildings.

The source did not specify the exact breeding period or the number of eggs per litter. However, the behavior of searching for sheltered sites is common among psittacids.

Creation in captivity requires authorization

Despite being frequently seen in urban areas, maritacas cannot be caught in the wild for domestic breeding. The breeding in captivity follows environmental rules and requires legal origin, according to the norms of IBAMA and the competent bodies.

In order to legally acquire a bird, it is necessary to search for authorised breeding grounds and have documentation proving the origin of the animal. Failure to comply with these standards may constitute environmental crime, subject to penalties.

For those who wish to observe maritacas closely, the recommendation is to enjoy these animals in free life, in parks, squares and green areas, without interfering with their natural behavior.

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