With an estimated population of about 10,000 in the wild, the red-masked parakeet lives mainly Ecuador and north-west Peru, in a wide range of habitats, from rain forest and semi-arid regions to farmed areas and towns. Although this species is found in different altitudes, from sea level to 8,000 feet, it is more common in altitudes below 5,000 feet.
Adult birds measure about 12.8 inches and weigh 5.8 oz to 7 oz, while newly hatched birds are about 0.35 oz. Males and females are predominately green, with yellowish underparts. They show light-colored patches around the eyes and red marks covering the anterior part of their heads. Some areas of their underwings, thighs and parts of the necks are also red. Juveniles are completely green, and gain their first red feather at the age of four months.
After mating, females lay three to four eggs, which they incubate for about 24 days. Nests are often made in tree holes. After seven to nine weeks, the young red-masked parakeets are ready to flight. Although this species can live up to 25 years, the average lifespan is 10 to 15 years.
Wild red-masked parakeets suffer from the illegal international trade, organized in Ecuador and Peru. Although trapping affects population numbers, declines are likely related to habitat loss and fragmentation. As fo 2008, the red-masked parakeet is listed in the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources' Red List of Threatened Species as "near threatened."