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The different species
.Pionus are stocky Parrots, on average 10-12 inches in length. They are all naturally found in Central and South America. Generally species of the forest but some seem to be found in upland mountainous forests. Some species such as the Blue-headed have a wide range but others for example the Dusky are limited in range (Guyana and Surinam).
As with all tropical birds Pionus are likely to face the same threats such as habitat loss.
The species most commonly found in Aviculture in Europe are:
Blue-headed (P.m. menstruus)
Dusky (P.fuscus) White-capped (P.senilis)
Maximillian(P.maximiliana) Bronze-winged (P.chalcopterus).
Less Common
Coral-billed(P.sordidus) I have seen in only one UK collection
White-crowned (P.seniliodes)
Plum-crowned (P.tumultuosus)
Some species, such as the Blue-headed , are quite uniform in appearance, whereas others, Dusky for example, can show quite a lot of individual variation.
We have found that immature Blue-headed have less blue on the head and chest and often have patches of red feathers on the crown.
Pictures;
Top: Maximilliam
Below:
White-capped
Dusky
Bronze-winged(immature).
 
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