Large Fig Parrot

The Large Fig Parrot, known scientifically as Psittaculirostris desmarestii, graces the forests with its vibrant plumage. This species, also referred to as the Flame-headed Fig Parrot or Desmarest's Fig Parrot, is a member of the Psittaculidae family. It is adorned with a striking red to orange cap, a light blue eye patch beneath its eye, and a yellow face. A pale turquoise ring tinged with red encircles its neck, while its bill is a grey-black hue. The body of this bird is predominantly green, providing excellent camouflage amongst the foliage.

Identification Tips

When observing these parrots, look for the distinctive coloration of the head, with the red to orange cap being a key identifier. Both male and female adults are identical in external appearance, making sex differentiation in the field a challenge. Juveniles can be recognized by their slightly duller head colors, yet they share the same overall pattern as the adults.

Habitat

The Large Fig Parrot thrives in a variety of forested environments, including subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical mangrove forests, and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.

Distribution

This species has a range that includes the West Papuan Islands and extends to southern and western New Guinea, encompassing both Indonesian and Papua New Guinean territories.

Subspecies

There are several subspecies of the Large Fig Parrot, each with slight variations in their plumage and distribution:

• P. d. blythii
• P. d. cervicalis
• P. d. desmarestii
• P. d. godmani
• P. d. intermedia
• P. d. occidentalis

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the Large Fig Parrot as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher risk category.