Cyanoramphus saisseti
The New Caledonian Parakeet, *Cyanoramphus saisseti*, is a vibrant, predominantly green parrot endemic to the remote island of New Caledonia. Measuring approximately 26-28 cm in length, including its long tail, and weighing around 50-60 grams, its most distinctive field marks include a striking red frontal band across the forehead, often extending towards the eye, and a prominent yellow patch on the crown. The outer primary coverts and flight feathers exhibit an attractive blue speculum, prov...
This parakeet inhabits a variety of forest types, including humid and dry lowland forests, gallery forests along waterways, and maquis shrubland, from sea level up to elevations of around 1,400 meters.
The New Caledonian Parakeet is an opportunistic omnivore, feeding primarily on seeds, fruits, flowers, buds, leaves, nectar, and occasionally small invertebrates, gleaned from foliage and sometimes from the ground.
New Caledonian Parakeets are diurnal and highly active, often observed foraging energetically in pairs or small family groups. Their daily routine typically involves early morning foraging, periods of rest during the midday heat, and another active foraging bout in the late afternoon before roost...
The New Caledonian Parakeet is strictly endemic to the French overseas territory of New Caledonia, primarily found on the main island of Grande Terre. Its distribution spans across various forest types from the coastal plains to the mountainous interior, ranging from sea level up to elevations of...
Least Concern
- The New Caledonian Parakeet was only recognized as a distinct species (*Cyanoramphus saisseti*) in 2011, having previously been considered a subspecies of the widespread Red-crowned Parakeet. - It is one of only two parrot species endemic to New Caledonia, the other being the critically endange...