Northiella narethae
The Naretha Bluebonnet (Northiella narethae) is a striking medium-sized parrot, typically measuring 28-33 cm (11-13 inches) in length. Its plumage features a vibrant blue-green on the back and wings, a prominent deep crimson patch on the abdomen, and a distinctive bright blue face and forehead. Other key field marks include a greyish-brown crown and nape, an olive-brown breast, and yellow undertail coverts. Subtle sexual dimorphism exists, with females potentially displaying slightly duller c...
This species primarily inhabits arid and semi-arid mallee and mulga woodlands and scrublands, favoring areas with sparse ground cover. It is typically found at low elevations across its inland Australian distribution.
The Naretha Bluebonnet's diet consists mainly of seeds from various grasses, herbs, and shrubs, supplemented by berries, flowers, nectar, and insect larvae. They forage primarily on the ground by gleaning and sifting.
Naretha Bluebonnets are diurnal, often foraging discreetly on the ground or in low shrubs with a characteristic waddling gait as they glean for seeds and insects. They are typically encountered in pairs or small family groups, maintaining relatively stable territories, especially around their cho...
The Naretha Bluebonnet is endemic to a highly restricted and remote region of inland Western Australia and adjacent South Australia. Its primary distribution lies across the Nullarbor Plain, extending generally from areas east of Kalgoorlie-Boulder in Western Australia across to the western parts...
Least Concern
- The Naretha Bluebonnet was relatively 'recently' discovered in 1910, a testament to the vastness of the Australian outback. - Its common and scientific name ('narethae') refers to Naretha, a remote railway siding in Western Australia where the type specimen was collected. - This parrot's stunni...