Scarlet-chested Parrot
Neophema splendida
The Scarlet-chested Parrot (Neophema splendida) is a legendary old world parrot found in 2 countries, weighing about 39 g. The scarlet-chested parrot, known alternately as scarlet-breasted parrot, orange-throated parrot or splendid parrot, is a parrot endemic to central South Australia and inland southern Western Australia.
About the Scarlet-chested Parrot
The scarlet-chested parrot, known alternately as scarlet-breasted parrot, orange-throated parrot or splendid parrot, is a parrot endemic to central South Australia and inland southern Western Australia. The species is sexually dimorphic; the male has a bright blue face and scarlet chest and yellow underparts, amid overall green plumage, while the female is similar but lacks the red chest. These nomadic parakeets move readily from the Great Victoria Desert region into neighbouring areas. These interruptions are triggered by a search for more favourable conditions. They can survive quite well without access to drinking water, however, as succulent plants help meet much of their fluid…
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
How to identify it
Measuring 19–21 cm (8 in) in length, this small vibrant and brightly coloured parrot is sexually dimorphic. The male has a scarlet chest, a cobalt blue face, and bright green upperparts. The lower breast and underparts are yellow, and the wing coverts are pale blue. The tail is green, the eyes are brown and the bill is blackish, and legs are brown-grey. The female likewise has a blue face, although the coloration is less extensive, green upperparts and green breast, with yellow underparts. Immature birds are duller versions of their respective adult forms.
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Germany.
When to see it
Best months: January, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December, with peak activity in May. It is a resident species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- How do you identify a Scarlet-chested Parrot?
- Measuring 19–21 cm (8 in) in length, this small vibrant and brightly coloured parrot is sexually dimorphic. Full identification notes are on this page.
- How big is a Scarlet-chested Parrot?
- The Scarlet-chested Parrot is a small sized bird weighing about 39 g.
- Where can you see a Scarlet-chested Parrot?
- The Scarlet-chested Parrot occurs in 2 countries, including Australia.
- What birds look similar to a Scarlet-chested Parrot?
- The Scarlet-chested Parrot is most easily confused with the Orange-bellied Parrot, the Rock Parrot and the Elegant Parrot.
- Is the Scarlet-chested Parrot endangered?
- The Scarlet-chested Parrot is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Learn the Scarlet-chested Parrot for real
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