| Protected under the
WildLife Protection Act |
 |
Black-Billed Parrot
Class :Aves
Appearance
The Black-Billed Parrot (Amazona agilis) is smaller than
the Yellow-billed parrot, and less colourful. It gets its name from
the colour of its bill.
Back and belly are green. Ear coverts are black with
a particular section of its wing red - a distinguishing feature.
Adults measured 10.5 - 11.5 metres.
Habitat
Humid limestone forests including the John Crow Mountains
and Cockpit Country, and some forested areas in St. Catherine. Mostly
found nesting high in forest trees, and in holes constructed in trunks
or base of certain trees.
Feeding Habit
Feed on a wide variety of plant parts, including fruits,
nuts and berries, blossoms. Plant types include ackee, guava, ripe
bananas and young corn.
Survival Threats
The parrot population is declining because of :
-
Habitat disturbance, such as slash and burn cultivation,
development and charcoal production.
-
Illegal sale as pets (pet trade). Often young
birds are taken from their nests when trees are cut down, and most
are mistreated during captivity, often given dirty water and improper
foods. Also wings are usually clipped to prevent them from flying
away.
-
Shooting - many farmers regard parrots as threat to
their crops, and so the birds are frequently shot.
Why They Need Protection
The population is diminishing. The frequent sightings
and rumors of parrots once observed over the years have lessened.
Parrots have tremendous ecological importance. Because they cover
extensive areas in order to feed, they help to disperse seed, via their
droppings in different areas of the forest.
Protection By Law
It is illegal, under the Wild Life Protection Act (1945),
for a person to have the whole or part of a parrot living or dead in one's
possession.
Failure to comply with this Law can attract a fine or imprisonment.
Do not purchase parrots from individuals offering them for
sale, and do not buy then from pet stores.
Do not destroy their habitats or disturb their nests.
|
