Neophema pulchella
The Turquoise Parrot, *Neophema pulchella*, is a small, exquisitely colored grass parrot native to southeastern Australia, famed for its vibrant plumage and a remarkable recovery from near extinction. Males are particularly striking, boasting brilliant turquoise-blue on the head and upperparts, a bright yellow belly, and a distinctive crimson patch on each wing, typically measuring around 20 cm (8 inches) in length and weighing about 40 grams. Females are more subdued, with a paler blue on th...
Found in open woodlands, grassy plains, and areas with scattered trees (eucalypts and acacias) in semi-arid and temperate regions, primarily at low elevations.
Primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds of various grasses, herbs, and shrubs, foraging mainly on the ground. They also occasionally consume flowers, leaves, and nectar.
Turquoise Parrots are diurnal, typically observed in pairs or small family groups, but can form larger flocks outside the breeding season. They are primarily ground feeders, moving gracefully through grasses to glean seeds, and are also adept at climbing on vegetation. Unlike some parrot species,...
The Turquoise Parrot is endemic to southeastern Australia, inhabiting a range that stretches from central Queensland south through inland New South Wales to central Victoria. Historically, its distribution was more extensive, but habitat modification and trapping led to significant contractions a...
Least Concern
- The Turquoise Parrot was once thought to be extinct for over 40 years, from the 1890s to the 1920s. - Its rediscovery and subsequent population recovery is considered one of Australia's early conservation success stories. - Unlike many parrot species known for their loud squawks, the Turquoise ...