Study: Parrots more adaptable than thought

COLLEGE STATION, Texas, Oct. 14 (UPI) -- U.S. and Costa Rican scientists say their research suggests parrots -- with more than 90 species facing extinction -- might be more adaptable than thought.

Donald Brightsmith, a Texas A&M University bird specialist, and Greg Matuzak from Amigos de las Aves USA, studied six parrot communities in Costa Rica to determine feeding and habitat use patterns in areas that had been partially cleared for use by farmers.

The scientists found the parrots fed primarily on seeds, fruit, pulp, leaves, bark and flowers found in their native tropical habitats of Central and South America. But when habitats were damaged and exotic, non-native tree species were planted, many parrots were quick to exploit the new food resources.

Brightsmith said the study suggests many parrot species might still be able to find food even in areas where deforestation and human development greatly reduce the amount of native vegetation.

"Another big surprise was that the parrots ate such a large amount of flowers and fruit pulp," Brightsmith added.

The study appears in the Wilson Journal of Ornithology.