Carolina parakeet
Carolina Parakeet (Conuropsis carolinensis) was the only parrot species native to the eastern United States. It was found from the Ohio Valley to the Gulf of Mexico, and lived in old forests along rivers. It is now extinct. The last known individual died in captivity in the Cincinnati Zoo in 1918. This bird's extinction is attributed to a combination of factors, including loss of habitat, hunting for its feathers, and disease.
Description[edit | edit source]
The Carolina Parakeet was about 12 inches (30 cm) long and weighed 280 to 310 grams. It had a bright green body, yellow head, and red around the eyes. The birds were known for their loud, shrill calls and social behavior, often seen in large flocks.
Habitat and Behavior[edit | edit source]
Carolina Parakeets preferred dense, old-growth forests near rivers and swamps. They fed on seeds, fruits, and sometimes agricultural crops, which made them considered pests by farmers. Their social nature often led to mass killings when they were found in crops.
Extinction[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of the Carolina Parakeet's extinction is not known but is believed to be a combination of habitat destruction, hunting for their colorful feathers for use in the millinery trade, and susceptibility to diseases spread by domestic poultry. Despite their once large numbers, they were rarely seen after the mid-19th century, and by the early 20th century, they were extinct in the wild. The last known individual, named "Incas," died in captivity in 1918.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
The Carolina Parakeet is an example of the impact humans can have on wildlife. It remains a subject of interest for conservationists, ornithologists, and the public. Efforts to preserve other species at risk of extinction have been influenced by the story of the Carolina Parakeet.
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