While this website is about art and architecture in San Francisco, every once in a while I spot a celebrity, and I thought I would bring them to you.
This flock of feral parrots, primarily Red-masked Parakeets (Aratinga erythrogenys,) descended from escaped or released pets. The flock was popularized by a book and subsequent documentary, both titled The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill.
The birds, known as Cherry-headed Conures, are native to Peru and Ecuador; they have established a breeding colony, with the support of some residents, and through the help of volunteers with Mickaboo Companion Bird Rescue. They range widely, including along The Embarcadero and in the Presidio.
A controversial San Francisco city ordinance passed on June 5, 2007, prohibits the feeding of parrots in public spaces. The feeding ban was championed by Mark Bittner, the birds’ most outspoken supporter who fed them for years and wrote the book and the documentary.
Here are just a few, of what is estimated to be about 200.
Nice sighting! We were in a park in Amsterdam and we swore we saw a huge flock of green birds flying though. We though it might have been a migration we spotted. It wasn’t, they also have a ferrel flock of parrots, but over 2000 strong that have adapted to the weather and stays year round. It was a sight to behold.
I really enjoy your posts!
I wonder if they compete with any native species? It would sure be cool to see them – no feral parrots here because of our cold winters.
I DO know this book very well! I also saw the movie, but like the book much better. It truly is a love story.
Thank you so much for sharing this today at The Creative Exchange.
Have a great evening!
lisa.
I confess I know nothing about the wild parrots of Telegraph Hill. Thanks for providing a link so I find out more.
I’m so glad you posted this. These birds are quite a story, aren’t they? I so seldom go to the City that it’s fun to see them through your lens. Only in San Francisco. Oh, I see Amsterdam gets added to the list too.
What lovely captures of the winged ones. Lucky you to have gotten photo moments of them.
They’re a beautiful addition to any community! I remember the movie.
I have read about them and find it fascinating! These are great photos of them!
my husband still hasn’t spotted these celebrities, he is most peeved! After six months in this city 🙂
I’ve learned something new today by following this photo. The colors of the tree and the bird are so similar.