The Monk Parakeet Myiopsitta monachus Boddaert (1783) in Connecticut: An investigation of distribution, nesting ecology, feeding habits and interactions

This study investigated the distribution of Monk Parakeets Myiopsitta monachus in Connecticut. Data regarding nesting ecology was collected. Monk Parakeet nest locations were plotted utilizing ArcView 9.0RTM . This revealed that Monk Parakeet populations (as well as individual colonies) were generally larger closer to the site of the initial colony site in Bridgeport. Nest location data was plotted against land use data and climate data in an effort to determine what were the limiting factors, if any, to Monk Parakeet distribution in Connecticut. Analysis of Audubon Christmas Count data showed that Monk Parakeet populations in Connecticut are currently experiencing exponential population growth. Dietary habits were catalogued and Monk Parakeets were found to true generalists. Both interspecfic and intraspecific behaviors were noted and discussed. Given their current population growth and the apparent surplus of suitable habitat Monk Parakeet populations in Connecticut are likely to continue their expansion.