Prioniturus flavicans
The Yellow-breasted Racket-tail (Prioniturus flavicans) is a vibrant and distinctive parrot species endemic to the Philippines, known for its bright green plumage and striking yellow breast and abdomen. Measuring approximately 29 cm (11.5 inches) in length and weighing around 150-180 grams, its most iconic feature is the unique racket-shaped central tail feathers, where the barbs have fallen off the shaft, leaving a bare shaft tipped with a spatulate 'racket' at the end. These distinctive tai...
This species primarily inhabits lowland and montane forests, including primary and secondary growth, at elevations ranging from sea level up to approximately 1,700 meters.
Its diet primarily consists of fruits, seeds, nuts, and flowers, supplemented with nectar; foraging takes place high in the forest canopy.
Yellow-breasted Racket-tails are diurnal and largely arboreal, spending most of their time high in the forest canopy. They forage actively for fruits, seeds, and flowers, often hanging acrobatically to reach desired items. These parrots are typically observed in pairs or small flocks, exhibiting ...
The Yellow-breasted Racket-tail is strictly endemic to the northern Philippines, with its distribution centered on the island of Luzon. Its range extends to several adjacent smaller islands, including Marinduque, Catanduanes, and the Polillo Islands. This species is a resident throughout its rang...
Near Threatened
- The Yellow-breasted Racket-tail is one of only ten species in the genus Prioniturus, all of which possess the unique racket-tipped tail feathers. - The 'racket' at the end of their central tail feathers is not present at hatching; it develops as the feather grows and the barbs detach and fall o...