GOLDEN-SHOULDERED PARROT
Psephotus chrysopterygius
DESCRIPTION
Golden-shouldered Parrot (Psephotus chrysopterygius) is a strikingly colorful bird native to Australia, known for its vibrant golden shoulder patches and green body. This species exhibits a unique behavior of foraging on the ground for seeds, primarily from grasses, and is often seen in small flocks. They prefer open woodlands and grasslands, where they can easily find food and nesting sites in tree hollows.
FUN FACTS
- Golden-shouldered Parrots are known for their unique courtship displays, where males perform aerial acrobatics to attract females
- Additionally, they have a fascinating social structure, often engaging in playful interactions and vocalizations that strengthen their bonds within the group
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
Average Weight80-100 g
Average Length25-30 cm
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social StructureThey are typically found in small groups, often consisting of pairs or family units.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring to early summer (September to January)
- Habitat
- Golden-shouldered Parrots inhabit open woodlands and grasslands, often near water sources. They require areas with sufficient ground cover for foraging and nesting.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland
- Native Range
- This species is endemic to Australia, specifically found in the northern regions of Queensland.
- Continent
- Australia
- Countries
- Australia
- Diet
- They primarily feed on seeds, particularly from grasses and other herbaceous plants.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- grass seeds
- Social Structure
- They are typically found in small groups, often consisting of pairs or family units.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-15
- Territorial
- 0
VU
80-100 g
Weight
25-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- They have a green body with a distinctive golden-yellow patch on the shoulder and a blue crown.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are generally more brightly colored than females, with more vivid yellow and blue markings.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivi
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-6
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Spring to early summer (September to January)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Golden-shouldered Parrots is currently declining due to habitat loss.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 5,000-10,000
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to agriculture and land development, as well as predation by introduced species such as cats and foxes.
- Conservation Program
- Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitat and monitor populations.
- Predators
- Cats, foxes, and birds of prey.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They rely on their ability to fly quickly and their camouflage to evade predators.
- Compatible Animals
- other small parrots, finches
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon