Neophema chrysostoma
The Blue-winged Parrot (*Neophema chrysostoma*) is a petite and agile grass parrot, measuring approximately 20-22 cm (8-9 inches) in length and weighing around 40-50 grams. Its plumage is a soft olive-green on the back, transitioning to a bright yellow on the belly and under-tail coverts, providing excellent camouflage in grassy habitats. A distinctive bright blue patch adorns its forehead and extends prominently along the primary wing coverts, which gives the species its common name and serv...
Primarily inhabits temperate grasslands, open woodlands, coastal dunes, and saltmarsh ecosystems, often in low-lying areas near water bodies. It can also be found in agricultural areas and pasturelands.
Feeds predominantly on the seeds of various native and introduced grasses, herbaceous plants, and shrubs, gleaned directly from the ground. Occasionally consumes flowers, nectar, and small insect larvae.
Diurnal, the Blue-winged Parrot spends much of its day foraging on the ground in small flocks, often composed of family groups outside the breeding season. They are highly alert, rising quickly and flying off with a swift, undulating flight if disturbed, then typically returning to the same area....
The Blue-winged Parrot's primary breeding range encompasses southeastern Australia, including Tasmania, Victoria, and southeastern South Australia, with some breeding occurring in adjacent areas of New South Wales. The Tasmanian population is entirely migratory, moving northward across the Bass S...
Least Concern
- The Blue-winged Parrot is one of only a handful of migratory parrot species in the world, with the Tasmanian population undertaking an impressive annual journey across the Bass Strait. - Its scientific name, *chrysostoma*, means 'golden mouth' in Greek, likely referring to the vibrant yellow pl...