Tanygnathus gramineus
The Black-lored Parrot (*Tanygnathus gramineus*) is an enigmatic and critically endangered psittacid, distinguished by its unique nocturnal habits. Measuring approximately 30 cm (12 inches) in length, this medium-sized parrot exhibits a predominantly vivid green plumage across its body. Its most striking field mark, and the source of its common name, is the prominent black patch of feathers (lores) situated between its eyes and powerful, yellowish-orange bill. The crown and nape display a sub...
This highly specialized parrot is found exclusively in the montane primary rainforests of Buru Island, Indonesia. It inhabits elevations typically ranging from 800 to 1,500 meters (2,600-4,900 feet).
Its diet primarily consists of fruits, particularly figs (*Ficus* species), as well as various nuts and seeds gleaned from the high forest canopy. Foraging occurs mainly during its nocturnal active periods.
The Black-lored Parrot is celebrated as the only known parrot species with confirmed nocturnal activity, a remarkable adaptation for its montane forest habitat. While it likely roosts silently in dense canopy or tree hollows during daylight hours, it becomes active at dusk, flying and foraging un...
The Black-lored Parrot is strictly endemic to Buru Island, one of the larger islands in Indonesia's Maluku archipelago. Its entire known distribution is confined to the mountainous, primary rainforest interior of Buru, where it is found at elevations typically ranging from 800 to 1,500 meters (2,...
Critically Endangered
- The Black-lored Parrot is the only parrot species in the world confirmed to be primarily nocturnal, a highly unusual adaptation. - It is found exclusively on Buru Island, Indonesia, making it a unique and precious endemic species. - Due to its extreme rarity and elusive nature, the Black-lored ...