Psittacula wardi
The Seychelles Parakeet, *Psittacula wardi*, was a striking medium-sized parrot, measuring approximately 40-42 cm (16-16.5 inches) in length, inclusive of its long, pointed tail. Its plumage was predominantly vivid green, softening to a paler shade on the underparts, with a subtle bluish wash often discernible on the crown and nape. A key identifying field mark was the distinct maroon-red patch on its wing-coverts. Sexual dimorphism was evident primarily in bill coloration: males sported a br...
Historically, the Seychelles Parakeet inhabited native broadleaf forests on the island of Mahé, primarily favoring the humid, mountainous interior regions.
Its primary diet consisted of various fruits and seeds from native trees, supplemented by cultivated crops such as maize and fruit from plantations.
Detailed behavioral accounts are scarce due to its extinction, but historical records and inferences from related species suggest the Seychelles Parakeet was likely diurnal and gregarious, foraging in small flocks. It probably nested in tree hollows, typical for many parakeet species, with both p...
The Seychelles Parakeet was historically endemic solely to the island of Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. Its distribution was restricted to the forested interior of Mahé, with records indicating its presence in the mountainous central regions where native broadleaf forests...
Extinct
- The Seychelles Parakeet was declared extinct around 1900, making it one of the earliest documented avian extinctions of the 20th century. - It was endemic to a single island, Mahé in the Seychelles archipelago, highlighting the vulnerability of island species. - The last confirmed sighting of a...