Bird Guide

Western Rosella

Platycercus icterotis

Least ConcernEndemicOmnivoreForestCavity nestMedium · 63 g

About the Western Rosella

The western rosella, or moyadong, is a species of parrot endemic to southwestern Australia. The head and underparts are bright red, and the back is mottled black; a yellow patch at the cheek distinguishes it from others of the genus Platycercus. Adults of the species exhibit sexual dimorphism with the females duller overall; juveniles lack the striking colours of mature birds and the characteristic patterning is not as easily distinguished. Their communication call is a softly delivered pink-pink sound, and much of their behaviour is comparatively unobtrusive. Their habitat is in eucalypt forests and woodlands, where they often remain unobserved until they appear to feed on seeds at nearby…

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

The smallest species of its genus, the adult western rosella weighs 60 to 70 g (2.1 to 2.5 oz) and is 25 to 30 cm (9.8 to 11.8 in) long. It has broad wings with a 35 to 41 cm (14 to 16 in) wingspan and a long tail that is on average 13 cm (5.1 in), equally half the measurement of its total length. It is the only species of the genus that exhibits marked differences in the coloration of the sexes —the red of the plumage is more scarlet in male P. icterotis. Voice: The regular vocalisation is a rapid series of melodious notes delivered at a low volume. The vocalisation of sister species of other regions is notably louder and more frequently heard in raucous exchanges with other individuals or species.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where the Western Rosella lives

Regular range

When to see the Western Rosella

Peak activity in October · a resident species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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