Red-rumped Parrot

The Red-rumped Parrot, known scientifically as Psephotus haematonotus, presents a striking figure in its native Australian landscapes. Males are adorned with a vivid emerald-green plumage, complemented by a sunny yellow on the underparts, a distinctive brick-red rump, and dashes of blue on the wings and upper back. Females, while less flamboyant, exhibit a more subdued palette of pale olive and dull green, with blue-black wingtips. It is the male that boasts the namesake red rump, a feature absent in the female.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Red-rumped Parrot, look for the male's bright red rump patch, which is a clear distinguishing mark. The bird's overall length is approximately 28 cm, and the sexual dimorphism in plumage coloration is quite pronounced, with the male's vibrant colors contrasting against the female's more muted tones.

Habitat

These parrots favor open country, where they have access to water. They tend to avoid coastal regions and densely wooded areas, preferring instead the grassy expanses where they can blend into their surroundings with their green plumage.

Distribution

The Red-rumped Parrot is a common sight in the south-eastern regions of Australia, particularly thriving in the Murray-Darling Basin. Human activities such as land clearing and the provision of water for livestock have likely expanded their range, including into suburban parks and gardens.

Behaviour

In the wild, Red-rumped Parrots are often observed in pairs or small flocks. Their green feathers provide excellent camouflage in grassy environments, allowing them to remain concealed until an observer is within a mere 10 to 20 meters. They are ground feeders and communicate with each other using a distinctive chee chillip chee chillip call.

Song & Calls

The Red-rumped Parrot's call is an attractive chee chillip chee chillip, which they use to maintain contact with one another while foraging or in flight.

Breeding

Breeding typically occurs in the spring months from September to November. However, in drier inland regions, these parrots may breed in response to rainfall at various times of the year. They nest in tree hollows, fenceposts, or stumps, laying clutches of 3-6 white eggs.

Diet and Feeding

These parrots are primarily ground feeders, spending much time foraging for seeds and other plant material.

Conservation status

The Red-rumped Parrot is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers.