Coracopsis sibilans
The Comoro Black Parrot (Coracopsis sibilans), a strikingly dark and enigmatic member of the parrot family, is an avian jewel endemic to the island of Grand Comoro. Averaging 30-35 cm (12-14 inches) in length and weighing around 150-200 grams, its plumage is a uniform sooty-black or dusky-grey, often appearing lighter in strong sunlight, with a subtle reddish patch visible under the wings during flight. Its stout, dark grey bill and pale grey eye-ring are distinctive field marks. Taxonomicall...
Occupies primary and secondary forests, as well as cultivated areas with mature trees, from coastal lowlands up to montane elevations (over 2,000 meters) on Grand Comoro island.
Primarily feeds on a variety of native and introduced fruits, seeds, and blossoms, foraging high in the canopy of forest and cultivated trees.
These diurnal parrots are typically observed singly, in pairs, or small family groups, often foraging quietly high in the forest canopy during the day. They exhibit opportunistic foraging strategies, meticulously inspecting branches for ripe fruits, seeds, and flowers. While specific details on t...
The Comoro Black Parrot is strictly endemic to Grand Comoro (Ngazidja), the largest island in the Comoros archipelago, situated off the southeastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. Its distribution is fragmented across the island, primarily concentrating in the remaining patches of primary a...
Critically Endangered
- The Comoro Black Parrot is one of the rarest parrots in the world, with an estimated population of only 100-250 mature individuals. - Its scientific name, *sibilans*, directly refers to its characteristic high-pitched, whistling calls, making it one of the few birds named after its unique vocal...