A DISTINCTIVE NEW SUBSPECIES OF THE GREEN-CHEEKED PARAKEET (PYRRHURA MOLINAE, PSITTACIDAE) FROM BOLIVIA

We here describe a distinctive new subspecies of the Green-cheeked Parakeet (Pyrrhura molinae), easily recognized by the striking yellow marginal coverts along the leading edge of the wing bend, from arid, rain-shadowed valleys in southern Depto. La Paz, Bolivia. Notes on habitat, distribution, relative abundance and behavior are presented. We also discuss possible origins of the new subspecies and the general importance of isolated, rain-shadowed valleys in Depto. La Paz for the evolution of Andean dry forest birds. Accepted 9 September 1997.