Small parrot, widespread but uncommon across the lowlands of northern South America. Difficult to see well unless a flock drops into a clay lick; otherwise, most often detected by voice as they pass over in high-flying flocks. Overall green with some brownish or yellowish tones on the head and dark forehead. Note the blue and red shoulder; the red especially can be limited or completely hidden. In flight, shows bright red underwing covert and a short, squared-off tail. Compare with the slightly larger Cobalt-winged Parakeet.