Prioniturus discurus
The Blue-crowned Racket-tail (Prioniturus discurus) is a captivating parrot species, endemic to the Philippines, renowned for its distinctive tail structure. Measuring approximately 27-29 cm (10.5-11.5 inches) in length, this predominantly bright green parrot sports a vivid deep blue crown that often extends slightly onto the nape, serving as its primary identifying field mark. Its most unique feature, shared with other members of its genus Prioniturus, is the 'racket-tail' – two central tail...
Inhabits lowland and montane primary and secondary forests, forest edges, and cultivated areas up to 1750 meters, preferring intact canopies.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a variety of fruits, seeds, nuts, berries, and flowers, typically foraging in the forest canopy.
Blue-crowned Racket-tails are diurnal and social, often observed in pairs or small family groups, though they can form larger foraging flocks of up to 20 individuals outside the breeding season. They are highly arboreal, skillfully climbing and maneuvering through the forest canopy, frequently ha...
The Blue-crowned Racket-tail is exclusively endemic to the Philippines, with its distribution spanning across many of the archipelago's major islands. Several subspecies are recognized, including *P. d. discurus* found in Mindanao, Basilan, and the Sulu Archipelago, and *P. d. whiteheadi* inhabit...
Near Threatened
- The Blue-crowned Racket-tail’s distinctive tail, featuring two bare-shafted central feathers tipped with black 'rackets', is a trait unique to the Prioniturus genus among all birds. - This parrot is a true Philippine endemic, found nowhere else in the world, making it a special conservation pri...