Blue-backed parrot

The blue-backed parrot (Tanygnathus everetti), also known by aliases such as Müller's parrot and Burbridge's parrot, is a large parrot species endemic to the Philippines. It is characterized by its predominantly green plumage, accented by yellowish edging on the wings, a distinctive blue rump, and blue wing bends. A notable feature is its sexual dimorphism: males possess a red beak, while females have a pale yellow or horn-colored beak, and both sexes have a red iris.

Habitat and Ecology

This species is typically found in tropical moist lowland forests, though it may also inhabit tropical, lowland, and montane forests, mangrove swamps, and degraded forests, most commonly below 500 meters elevation. While detailed ecological information is scarce, its diet is presumed to be similar to that of the blue-naped parrot, consisting of fruits and seeds. They have been reported nesting in tree cavities high above the ground, with breeding observed in April on Samar.

Conservation Concerns

The blue-backed parrot is facing severe population decline, leading to its classification as endangered. Population estimates suggest fewer than 250 mature individuals remain, with some sources indicating the number could be critically low, possibly below 250. The primary threats driving this decline are habitat loss, particularly deforestation, and illegal trapping for the pet trade. The species is legally protected under Philippine Law RA 9147, making it illegal to hunt, capture, or possess these parrots. Urgent conservation actions include comprehensive surveys to assess current populations and ecological needs, protection of remaining forest habitats, and the initiation of a captive-breeding program. The species is confirmed present in only one protected area, Samar Island Natural Park, where deforestation and poaching remain ongoing issues.

Taxonomy and Identification

Previously considered conspecific with the azure-rumped parrot, the blue-backed parrot was recognized as a distinct species by major ornithological bodies in recent years. It can be distinguished from the azure-rumped parrot by its blue back and red iris, compared to the azure-rumped parrot's plain green back and yellow iris. It is also often confused with the blue-naped parrot, from which it differs by its red iris, more plain green wings, more pronounced sexual dimorphism, slightly larger size, and distinct vocalizations. Four subspecies have been recognized, though ongoing research may lead to further taxonomic reclassifications. The blue-backed parrot is now feared to be locally extinct in large parts of its former range, including Negros, Panay, Leyte, Luzon, and Polilio, with only recent records from Samar, Mindanao, and Tawi-tawi.