Turquoise parrot

The turquoise parrot, belonging to the genus Neophema, is a stunning bird native to Eastern Australia. You can find these vibrant birds from southeastern Queensland, through New South Wales, and into northeastern Victoria. First described by George Shaw in 1792, the turquoise parrot is small but striking. Males flaunt a predominantly green body with a vivid turquoise-blue face, while females exhibit a more subdued plumage with a pale green breast and a yellow belly.

These parrots primarily feed on grasses and seeds, but they also enjoy the occasional flower, fruit, and even scale insects. For nesting, they prefer the hollows of gum trees.

Over the years, the turquoise parrot has undergone a few name changes, but its current scientific name is Neophema pulchella. It is closely related to the scarlet-chested parrot and is one of six species in the Neophema genus. While their numbers declined in the early 20th century, they have since been making a recovery.

Turquoise parrots inhabit grasslands and open woodlands, particularly in areas with Eucalyptus and Callitris trees. They seem to favor rocky ridges or gullies. While they are generally sedentary, some populations do exhibit local movements. Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, conservation efforts have been initiated, leading some regions to list them as near threatened.

These parrots are monogamous and typically remain in small groups or flocks. Their breeding season runs from August to January, with nests usually found in tree hollows. Their diet primarily consists of seeds, but they also consume leaves, flowers, fruit, and insects. Predators and habitat destruction have been significant threats to their survival.

In captivity, the turquoise parrot has been kept since the 19th century. Breeding efforts have resulted in several color variants. Although they initially faced infertility issues in captivity, they have adapted well and are known for their quiet nature.