Blossom-headed Parakeet

The Blossom-headed Parakeet, Psittacula roseata, is a charming parrot species adorned with a palette of vibrant colors. Males are particularly striking, with a pink head that transitions to pale blue at the back of the crown, nape, and cheeks. A narrow black collar graces their necks, and a black chin stripe adds to their distinct appearance. Their shoulders boast a splash of red, while their rumps and tails exhibit a bluish-green hue, the latter tipped with yellow. The upper mandible is a bright yellow, contrasting with the dark lower mandible. Females, on the other hand, present with a more subdued pale grey head and lack the black neck collar and chin stripe. Their lower mandible is paler, and immature birds display a green head with a grey chin, both mandibles tinged yellowish, and absent the red shoulder patch.

Identification Tips

To identify the Blossom-headed Parakeet, look for the male's pink head and the female's grey head, both with a yellow-tipped tail. These features help distinguish them from the similar Plum-headed Parakeet, which lacks the yellow tail tip.

Habitat

This species favors the open forests and forest edges in lowland and foothill regions, where it can be found residing and breeding.

Distribution

The Blossom-headed Parakeet is a resident breeder in Eastern Bangladesh, Bhutan, Northeast India, and Nepal, with its range extending eastward into Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and parts of China.

Behaviour

These parakeets are known for their sociable nature, often seen in noisy flocks. They exhibit local movements, primarily influenced by the availability of fruit and blossoms, which constitute their diet. Nesting occurs in tree holes, where they lay clutches of 4-5 white eggs.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Blossom-headed Parakeet includes a variety of raucous calls, reflecting their gregarious disposition.

Similar Species

The Plum-headed Parakeet is similar in appearance but can be differentiated by the absence of a yellow tip on the tail.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of these parakeets is primarily composed of fruit and blossoms, which they seek out in their natural habitat.

Conservation status

The Blossom-headed Parakeet is currently classified as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it faces threats that could lead to its vulnerability in the wild.