Top 5 Places to Spot America's Wild Parrots

Wild parrots are more commonly associated with the movie Rio or with tropical rainforests, but you’d be surprised to find that several species can be spotted in the United States. Though these colorful birds are not as numerous as in their native habitats, seeing them can be a thrilling experience. Here are five top locations across the U.S. where you can catch a glimpse of wild parrots.

#1 Broward County in Florida

The monk parakeet, Myiopsitta monachus sitting on a tree branch — The monk parakeet, Myiopsitta monachus, also known as the Quaker parrot, is a species of true parrot in the family Psittacidae. Image by hejrazdvatri on Depositphotos

Broward County is a premier destination for parrot enthusiasts. This area is renowned for its large populations of monk and green parakeets.The Monk Parakeet or Myiopsitta monachus is the most widespread and abundant wild parrot in the US. This squat, lime green bird is native to South America and can be found in most places in the US. Cities such as Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, and Davie, are some of the best spots to see them.

#2 Tampa Bay Area in Florida

Green Parrot Perched on a Tree Branch. Image by Rodrigo Menezes via Pexels

Tampa Bay is another hotspot for spotting monk and green parakeets. The urban parks and green spaces around Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater are great places to look. The area’s favorable climate and abundant food sources attract these colorful visitors.

#3 Los Angeles in California

Red Crowned Parrot perching on branch. Image by Ant Armada via Pexels

Los Angeles may not have as many wild parrots as Florida, but it still offers a chance to spot Monk Parakeets. You may also catch a glimpse of other more uncommon species like the Red-crowned Parrot and Yellow-headed Parrot. Although some believe they are actually escaped pets! To increase your chances of a sighting you can explore areas like Griffith Park or local green spaces.

#4 San Diego in California

Red Masked Parakeet feral parrots. Image by Dawn Endico, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

San Diego, despite offering great places for sky-watching, is limited in terms of parrot diversity. It is home to a small but established population of Monk Parakeets. Red-masked Parakeets have also gained some fame in the area through the documentary “The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill”, but sightings are quite rare. But if you’re the optimistic type the city’s parks and coastal areas are excellent lookout spots for parrot watching. Balboa Park and the waterfront provide great opportunities to see these charming fellas.

#5 Chicago in Illinois

Perched Monk Parakeet. Image by Manuel Torres Garcia via Pexels

Chicago might seem like an unlikely place to find wild parrots, but the South Side of the city is particularly known for sightings. Monk Parakeets have made their nest in the city’s green spaces, despite their relative lack of abundance compared to other places. A focused search may yield some rewarding discoveries.

Tips for Spotting Wild Parrots

Yellow Napped Amazon Parrot. Image by Andrés Jiménez via Pexels

Timing and patience are key. Parrots are most active in the early mornings and late afternoons, making it the ideal time to pull out your binoculars. Remember parrots are social and often travel in flocks. If you see one keep your eyes wide and butt planted because there is likely more nearby. Birdwatching can sometimes require a bit of waiting, but don’t be discouraged. If you have siblings, you already have more patience than you think.

Scouting the City

Finding wild parrots in the U.S. might not be as straightforward as in tropical regions, but it’s certainly exciting. From the bustling cities of Florida to the serene parks of California and the surprising locales in Chicago, there are plenty of viewing opportunities for a memorable experience. So head out to one of these top spots to discover America’s wild parrots for yourself!