Buff-faced Pygmy Parrot

The Buff-faced Pygmy Parrot, Micropsitta pusio, is a diminutive avian marvel, distinguished as the world's smallest parrot. This tiny, predominantly green feathered creature weighs an average of 14 grams and measures a mere 8.6 centimeters in length. Both sexes exhibit similar plumage, with a yellowish hue adorning their underparts and a characteristic buff color gracing their cheeks, face, and crown. A striking dark blue patch crowns the top of the head, extending to the occiput.

Identification Tips

When observing these parrots, look for the buff-colored face which gives them their name, and the dark blue patch on the head. The male and female are quite similar, though the female's head markings are less pronounced and her facial coloration is paler. Their eyes are dark brown, and they possess a grey bill with legs that may show greyish, blue, or pinkish tints. Juveniles can be identified by the absence of the blue crown and a less distinct buff coloration.

Habitat

Buff-faced Pygmy Parrots thrive in the subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, where they can be seen actively hopping along tree trunks in small, sociable groups.

Distribution

This species is native to the northern lowlands of New Guinea, ranging from the west to the southeastern tip, and can be found at altitudes up to 800 meters. They are also inhabitants of the Bismarck Archipelago.

Behaviour

These parrots are highly active and social, often seen in groups of up to six individuals. They exhibit a unique behavior of hopping with agility on tree trunks, a spectacle that is both charming and fascinating to witness.

Conservation status

The Buff-faced Pygmy Parrot is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. Despite the lack of precise data on their population numbers, their extensive range across New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago contributes to their stable conservation status.