Psittacella brehmii
Brehm's Tiger Parrot (Psittacella brehmii) is a captivating, medium-sized parrot native exclusively to the remote, high-altitude cloud forests of New Guinea. Reaching lengths of 23-24 cm and weighing between 98-120 grams, this species boasts an exquisite emerald-green plumage, dramatically contrasted by fine black barring across its yellow-green underparts, reminiscent of a tiger's stripes—a feature that gives it its distinctive common name. Key identification markers include its bright red r...
Brehm's Tiger Parrot inhabits montane rainforests, moss forests, and subalpine forests, primarily at elevations between 1,500 and 3,800 meters above sea level.
Primarily frugivorous and granivorous, feeding on seeds from various montane conifers and shrubs, berries, and likely some flowers and nectar. Forages by climbing and expertly manipulating food with its feet.
These diurnal parrots are typically observed singly, in pairs, or small, cohesive family groups of up to five individuals, often camouflaged amidst the dense canopy foliage of montane forests. Their foraging strategy involves meticulous exploration of branches and epiphytes, often hanging acrobat...
Brehm's Tiger Parrot is an enduring resident endemic to the expansive island of New Guinea, where its distribution is confined to the various mountain ranges across both the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua, and the independent nation of Papua New Guinea. Its primary stronghold lies w...
Least Concern
- The striking fine black barring on its yellow-green underparts gives Brehm's Tiger Parrot its common name, a unique visual trait among parrots. - It is one of only four species within the genus Psittacella, all exclusively found in the rugged, high-altitude mountain ranges of New Guinea. - Male...