Grass Parrots

the orange bellied parrakeet

neophema chrysogaster

perruche à ventre orange

orangebauchsittich

photo Dave Watts

Probably the rarest of the group, this migratory species moves from Australia mainland in the coldest season to Tasmania in the spring for breeding and then back to Victoria  or eastern south Australia, although some seem to be sedentary. The population of the Orange-bellied Parrot has declined dramatically in recent years largely due to loss and alteration of its mainland winter habitat, reduced breeding habitat in Tasmania, together with predation from foxes and cats. It is estimated that there are less than 200 of this colourful parrot in the wild and a "recovery plan" was established in 1986.

Description:

length 21 cm, weight 50 g average.

Almost unknown in the european aviaries, even in Australia there are very few breeding reports.

The female is duller green than the male, the frontal blue band is reduced and the orange belly patch is smaller and duller.

Juveniles are similar to adults but duller, with no forehead stripe and smaller orange belly patch.

photo Dave Watts

photo Ian montgomery

click on the photo to enlarge it