Red-Rumped Parrot

psephotus haematonotus

The Red-rumped Parrot is a striking and commonly encountered small to medium-sized parrot native to southeastern Australia. Known for its vibrant plumage, especially the males' brilliant green and red coloration, this species is a familiar sight in open woodlands, grasslands, and even suburban parks. They are highly social birds, often seen foraging in small to large flocks on the ground, making them a popular subject for birdwatchers and a beloved pet in aviculture. Their adaptable nature and cheerful chirping calls add a lively presence to their diverse habitats.

Habitat: Found in open woodlands, grasslands, farmlands, and mallee scrub, often near watercourses.

Appearance

Males are strikingly vibrant, predominantly bright emerald green with a brilliant blue face, yellow belly, and a distinctive bright red patch on their rump, which is most visible in flight or when preening. Females are duller, primarily olive-green with a pale green belly, a grayish-blue face, and a more muted reddish-brown rump patch. Both sexes have a relatively long, slender tail and a short, stout beak. They typically measure between 27 to 30 cm in length.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPsittaciformesFamilyPsittaculidaeGenusPsephotus

Red-Rumped Parrot

Interesting facts

The Red-rumped Parrot is one of the few parrot species where the male and female have distinctly different plumage, a characteristic known as sexual dimorphism.

Their scientific name, Psephotus haematonotus, directly translates to 'painted with a blood-red back,' referring to the male's striking red rump patch.

They are known to feed on a wide variety of both native and introduced weed seeds, sometimes leading them to be considered minor agricultural pests in certain cropping regions.

Unlike many parrot species that prefer dense tree cover, Red-rumped Parrots spend a significant amount of time foraging on the ground in open areas.

Special abilities

Red-rumped Parrots are highly adapted to foraging on the ground, primarily feeding on seeds, grasses, and fallen fruits. Their strong beaks allow them to efficiently crack open seeds found among low vegetation.

These parrots are capable of swift and agile flight, enabling them to quickly move between feeding grounds and evade predators. Their flight is characterized by rapid wingbeats and an undulating pattern.

They possess a range of vocalizations, including cheerful chirps and chattering calls, used for flock cohesion, warning signals, and communication during courtship. This allows them to maintain social bonds and coordinate activities within their groups.

Measurements & details

Length: 27-30 cm
Wingspan: 38-45 cm
Weight: 0.055-0.085 kg
Lifespan: 5-15 years
Top Speed: 50 km/h
Clutch Size: 4-7
Incubation: 18-21 days

Diet & Feeding

Red-rumped Parrots are primarily ground-feeding herbivores, consuming a variety of seeds and vegetation. They are often seen grazing on grass seeds and other small plant material in open areas.

Primary Foods

Grass seeds
Weed seeds
Native plant seeds
Leaves of grasses
Flower buds
Small fruits

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

competitor

Galah

Eolophus roseicapilla

Competition for nesting hollows.

eaten by

Lace Monitor

Varanus varius

Predation on eggs and chicks.

eaten by

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

Predation on adult parrots.

Traits

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Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

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Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Red-Rumped Parrot?

The easiest way to identify Red-Rumped Parrot is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Red-Rumped Parrot?

27-30 cm

What is Red-Rumped Parrot's wingspan?

38-45 cm

How much does Red-Rumped Parrot weigh?

0.055-0.085 kg

How long does Red-Rumped Parrot live?

5-15 years

How fast can Red-Rumped Parrot move?

50 km/h

What does Red-Rumped Parrot eat?

Red-rumped Parrots are primarily ground-feeding herbivores, consuming a variety of seeds and vegetation. They are often seen grazing on grass seeds and other small plant material in open areas.

Where is Red-Rumped Parrot usually found?

Found in open woodlands, grasslands, farmlands, and mallee scrub, often near watercourses.