Double-eyed Fig Parrot

The double-eyed fig parrot, known scientifically as Cyclopsitta diophthalma, is a diminutive and vibrantly colored bird. It is the smallest parrot species found in Australia, measuring approximately 14 cm (5.5 inches) in length. The bird is predominantly green, with a notably large head and bill for its size, and a very short tail. Its facial markings are a distinctive combination of red and blue.

Identification Tips

Males typically exhibit more red on their faces, with less silvery and blue hues compared to females, indicating sexual dimorphism in most subspecies. A blue spot on the lores, which is roughly the size of the eyes in New Guinean birds, is a characteristic feature from which its name is derived.

Habitat

The double-eyed fig parrot primarily resides in forests, favoring the lush canopies of New Guinea and nearby islands.

Distribution

This species is also found in isolated populations along the tropical Australian coast, east of the Great Dividing Range.

Behaviour

In their quest for food, double-eyed fig parrots forage in pairs or small flocks, seeking out figs, berries, seeds, nectar, and wood-boring insect grubs. They are known for their swift and direct flight patterns and produce a short, shrill call. Unique among parrots, they excavate their own nesting cavities in rotting trees rather than using pre-existing holes.

Song & Calls

The calls of the double-eyed fig parrot are high-pitched, clipped notes, often described as 'zzzt-zzzt' or 'zeet-zeet', which contrast with the rolling or trilling screeches typical of lorikeets. These calls are primarily emitted in flight but can also be heard when the birds are perched. While feeding, they may also produce a variety of softer, chattering sounds.

Breeding

Unlike many parrots, the double-eyed fig parrot carves out its own nesting site within a decaying tree.

Similar Species

There are eight subspecies of the double-eyed fig parrot, with variations in their facial coloration and distribution. These include the Aru double-eyed fig parrot, Astrolabe Mountain fig parrot, Coxen's fig parrot, Tagula fig parrot, Macleay's fig parrot or red-browed fig parrot, Marshall's fig parrot, and Hartert's double-eyed fig parrot.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the double-eyed fig parrot consists of figs, berries, seeds, nectar, and the larvae of wood-boring insects.

Conservation Status

The IUCN has assessed the double-eyed fig parrot as Least Concern overall. However, certain subspecies, such as Coxen's fig parrot (C. d. coxeni), are under threat and are classified as Endangered in Queensland, New South Wales, and nationally in Australia due to habitat loss from the clearing of lowland subtropical rainforest.