Tanygnathus sumatranus
The Azure-rumped Parrot, *Tanygnathus sumatranus*, is a striking medium-sized parrot, measuring approximately 32 cm (12.5 inches) in length and weighing around 200-250 grams. Its plumage is predominantly vibrant green, contrasting sharply with a distinctive bright azure blue lower back and rump, a key identification field mark. The large, powerful bill is a prominent feature, typically bright red on the upper mandible and often horn-colored or darker on the lower. Belonging to the family Psit...
This parrot inhabits lowland and foothill primary and secondary forests, forest edges, cultivated areas with scattered trees, and coconut plantations, typically found from sea level up to 1000-1500 meters.
Their diet consists primarily of fruits, seeds, and nuts, with a notable preference for figs, bananas, and other soft fruits found in the forest canopy and cultivated areas.
Azure-rumped Parrots are diurnal, often observed in pairs or small family groups, though they may gather in larger, noisy flocks at communal roosting sites. They are agile canopy foragers, using their strong bills and dexterous feet to manipulate food items. While specific territorial behaviors a...
The Azure-rumped Parrot is endemic to the Philippines, inhabiting numerous islands across the archipelago. Its primary distribution includes Luzon, Polillo, Marinduque, Mindoro, Masbate, Panay, Negros, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Samar, Mindanao, Basilan, Dinagat, and Siargao islands. Subspecies *T. s. b...
Near Threatened
- The Azure-rumped Parrot is endemic to the Philippines, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. - Its scientific name, *Tanygnathus sumatranus*, is a bit of a misnomer, as 'sumatranus' refers to Sumatra, a place where it is not naturally found (a historical taxonomic confusion). - It is o...