Neophema splendida
The Scarlet-chested Parrot (Neophema splendida), often known as the Splendid Parrot, is a jewel-toned small parrot endemic to arid and semi-arid inland Australia. Males are instantly recognizable by their brilliant scarlet breast, vibrant blue face and crown, bright green upperparts, and a striking yellow belly, accented by blue wing patches. Females, though beautiful, are more subtly colored with green and yellow plumage, a paler blue face, and lack the distinctive scarlet chest, appearing g...
Arid and semi-arid inland Australia, primarily inhabiting mallee and acacia scrublands, open eucalyptus woodlands, and arid grasslands. Typically found in flat, open country with scattered trees and shrubs, often near ephemeral water sources.
Strictly granivorous, feeding primarily on the seeds of various native grasses and herbaceous plants, which they meticulously collect from the ground. They occasionally supplement their diet with flowers and fruits of arid zone plants.
Scarlet-chested Parrots are primarily diurnal, most active during the cooler parts of the day, foraging meticulously on the ground. They are generally seen in pairs or small family groups, occasionally forming larger flocks of up to 100 birds, especially during nomadic movements in search of wate...
The Scarlet-chested Parrot is endemic to the arid and semi-arid interior of Australia, primarily distributed across parts of inland Western Australia, southern Northern Territory, South Australia, and western New South Wales and Queensland. They exhibit a nomadic lifestyle rather than distinct se...
Least Concern
- The Scarlet-chested Parrot was once considered extinct in the early 20th century due to over-trapping for the pet trade, only to be rediscovered in the 1930s. - They are remarkably quiet birds, especially compared to other parrot species, emitting only soft chirps and whistles. - Unlike many pa...