Australian King-Parrot
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Psittaciformes, Family: Psittaculidae, Genus: Alisterus, Species: Alisterus scapularis
Family: Psittaculidae (Old World Parrots)
- Shape
- Symmetrical vane with a rounded tip, typical for body protection and insulation.
- Size
- Approximately 1 to 2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long, based on the scale of body plumage for this large parrot.
- Rarity
- Common within its range; regularly encountered in eastern Australian forests and gardens.
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Description
Large, long-tailed parrot (approx. 43cm). Males have a striking scarlet head and underparts with green wings; females have a green head and breast.
Colour & Pattern
Vibrant scarlet red (male underparts/head) or deep grass green (wings/back and female head). The color is structural and pigment-based (psittacofulvins).
Barb Structure
Tightly interlocked pennaceous barbs on the distal end with a soft, plumulaceous base for insulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, waxy, and slightly glossy appearance to provide water resistance and streamline the bird's profile.
Key Features
Electric red and deep forest green coloration; large size compared to other Australian parrots like rosellas.
Habitat
Rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and eucalyptus woodlands; also common in suburban gardens and parks.
Geographic Range
Eastern Australia, ranging from Cooktown in Queensland to Port Campbell in Victoria.
Ecological Role
Primary seed and fruit consumer; acts as a seed disperser within forest ecosystems.
Similar Species
Crimson Rosella (Platycercus elegans) - distinguished by blue cheek patches and black scalloping on the back.
Interesting Facts
Unlike many parrots, they are relatively quiet and are known to wait patiently for food; they are the only Australian parrots with a completely red head.
Condition Notes
Feathers on the living specimen appear in good condition with high gloss, though molted feathers may show apical wear or fading.