Prioniturus luconensis
The Green Racket-tail (Prioniturus luconensis) is a striking and enigmatic parrot endemic to the northern Philippines, instantly recognizable by its vivid green plumage and distinctive 'racketed' tail feathers. Measuring approximately 30 cm (12 inches) in total length, including the elongated central tail feathers that terminate in unique blackish spatulae, this species boasts a predominantly bright emerald green body. A subtle but beautiful suffusion of blue often graces its crown and nape, ...
This parrot inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland and montane forests, often preferring forest edges, from sea level up to approximately 1,700 meters elevation.
Their diet primarily consists of various wild fruits, berries, and seeds, occasionally supplemented with nuts and possibly flowers, all foraged within the forest canopy.
Green Racket-tails are diurnal birds, typically observed in pairs or small family groups, though they can form larger flocks of up to 20-30 individuals outside the breeding season, especially when foraging. They are arboreal foragers, moving deliberately and often quietly within the dense canopy ...
The Green Racket-tail is endemic to the northern Philippine islands, with its primary stronghold on Luzon, the largest island. Its distribution also includes the smaller islands of Marinduque and possibly Catanduanes and Lubang, although records from the latter two are less consistent or historic...
Vulnerable
- The Green Racket-tail's most distinctive feature, the 'racketed' tail, is formed by two central tail feathers that have bare shafts ending in broad, black spatulae, resembling miniature tennis rackets. - This species is one of only ten recognized racket-tail parrot species, all of which are end...