Prioniturus waterstradti
The Mindanao Racket-tail (*Prioniturus waterstradti*) is a striking medium-sized parrot, measuring approximately 27-30 cm (10.5-12 inches) in length, including its unique tail. Its plumage is predominantly a vibrant emerald green, often brighter on the head and breast, contrasting with darker green on its back and wings. A key distinguishing feature is the iridescent sky-blue patch on its crown, which sets it apart from many of its congeners, complemented by bright yellow undertail-coverts an...
Resident in montane and submontane primary and secondary forests, often along forest edges, typically found at elevations between 800 and 2,000 meters above sea level.
Primarily frugivorous, consuming a variety of wild fruits, seeds, nuts, and possibly flowers, often foraging in the forest canopy.
Mindanao Racket-tails are diurnal and primarily arboreal, spending most of their time in the forest canopy. They are typically observed in pairs or small family groups, occasionally forming larger flocks of up to 10-15 individuals when foraging. Their foraging strategy involves actively moving th...
The Mindanao Racket-tail is strictly endemic to the island of Mindanao in the southern Philippines. Its distribution is fragmented, primarily restricted to remaining montane and submontane forests across several key mountain ranges. Notable populations are found on Mt. Apo, the highest peak in th...
Vulnerable
- The Mindanao Racket-tail is one of only two racket-tail parrot species found in Mindanao, the other being the Great-billed Racket-tail, but the Mindanao species is distinguished by its prominent blue crown. - Its scientific name, *waterstradti*, honors the German naturalist, Johannes Waterstrad...