Swift Parrot

The swift parrot, Lathamus discolor, is a strikingly colourful bird, approximately 25 centimetres in length. It boasts a predominantly green plumage, accented with a bluish crown and vivid red markings on the face, above and below the beak. The adult female's coloration is slightly less vibrant, while juveniles can be identified by their dark brown irises and pale orange bills.

Identification Tips

When identifying the swift parrot, look for its long pointed wings and tapering tail feathers. The crimson forehead to throat and additional red patch at the wing's top edge are distinctive. These birds are known for their noisy and active behaviour, as well as their impressively fast and direct flight.

Habitat

Swift parrots inhabit a variety of environments including forests, woodlands, agricultural lands, plantations, and even urban areas.

Distribution

This nomadic species breeds in Tasmania during the summer and migrates to south-eastern mainland Australia for the winter. They have been observed as far north as south-eastern Queensland and as far west as Adelaide, South Australia. Their presence in any given location is unpredictable, as it is contingent upon the availability of food.

Behaviour

The swift parrot is a nomadic migrant, settling only where food is abundant. They are highly active, social, and exhibit a showy nature. Their flight is remarkably swift, living up to their name.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in Tasmania from September to February. The swift parrot is selective about nesting cavities, preferring those with small entrances, deep chambers, and wide floors. These preferred nesting sites are rare and vulnerable to disturbances such as wildfires and deforestation. The species has a high breeding success rate when conditions are favourable, but introduced predators like sugar gliders pose a significant threat, especially in areas affected by logging.

Diet and Feeding

The swift parrot primarily feeds on nectar, particularly from flowering Eucalyptus globulus and Eucalyptus ovata in Tasmania. During winter on the mainland, they forage on a broader range of flowering Eucalyptus species.

Conservation status

The swift parrot is classified as Critically Endangered. The population is estimated to be fewer than 300 individuals. The principal threat to the species is habitat loss due to logging, which also exacerbates predation by sugar gliders. Conservation efforts are hindered by ineffective policies and management plans, leading to continued habitat destruction. The swift parrot is listed as Endangered under the Australian Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and the Victorian Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act.