Eastern Rosella

The Eastern Rosella, scientifically known as Platycercus eximius, is a vibrant and colorful rosella native to southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. This striking bird measures approximately 30 cm (12 inches) in length and is adorned with a red head and white cheeks. Its beak is white, and the irises are a deep brown. The upper breast is a vivid red, transitioning to a yellow on the lower breast and fading to a pale green across the abdomen. The back and shoulders feature black feathers with yellowish or greenish margins, creating a scalloped appearance that varies slightly between subspecies and sexes. The wings and lateral tail feathers are bluish, while the tail itself is dark green. The legs are a muted grey. Females are similar to males but are slightly duller and possess an underwing stripe, which is absent in adult males. Juveniles are even duller than females and also have an underwing stripe.

Identification Tips

To identify the Eastern Rosella, look for its red head, white cheeks, and the distinctive scalloped pattern on its back and shoulders. The male's bright colors and lack of an underwing stripe distinguish it from the female. Juveniles can be recognized by their overall duller coloration and the presence of an underwing stripe.

Habitat

The Eastern Rosella favors lightly wooded country, open forests, woodlands, gardens, bushlands, and parks. It thrives in areas where trees and open spaces intermingle.

Distribution

This species is indigenous to eastern Australia and Tasmania. It has also been introduced to New Zealand, where feral populations have established themselves, particularly in the North Island and the hills around Dunedin in the South Island.

Behaviour

Eastern Rosellas are known for their ability to adapt to various environments, including urban areas. They are often observed feeding on the ground or perched in trees.

Breeding

Breeding typically occurs in spring, but it can extend into summer if necessary. Eastern Rosellas can lay between two to nine eggs. They nest in tree hollows that can be quite high off the ground, up to 30 meters (98 feet), and around 1 meter (3 feet) deep. A sign of breeding readiness is the exchange of food between potential mates.

Similar Species

The Eastern Rosella can be confused with the Pale-headed Rosella (P. adscitus), especially where their ranges overlap and hybridization occurs. However, the Eastern Rosella can be distinguished by its red head and white cheeks.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Eastern Rosella primarily consists of fruit, seeds, flowers, and insects.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Eastern Rosella as Least Concern, indicating that the species does not currently face a significant risk of extinction in the wild.