Double-eyed fig parrot
The double-eyed fig parrot, also known as the blue-faced fig parrot, is the smallest parrot in Australia, primarily found in forests of New Guinea and nearby islands, with isolated populations along the tropical Australian coast. This predominantly green parrot is distinguished by its short tail, large head and bill, and distinctive red and blue facial markings. While generally of Least Concern, certain subspecies, like Coxen's fig parrot, face significant threats due to habitat loss.
Key Facts
- ›It is the smallest parrot species found in Australia, measuring approximately 14 cm in length.
- ›Predominantly green plumage is accented by red and blue facial markings and a very short tail.
- ›Males typically exhibit more red on their faces than females, indicating sexual dimorphism in most subspecies.
- ›Forages in pairs or small flocks for figs, berries, seeds, nectar, and insect grubs.
- ›Unlike many parrots, they excavate their own nesting cavities in rotten trees.
- ›Known for its short, shrill, high-pitched calls, often described as 'zzzt-zzzt' or 'zeet-zeet'.
Blue-Faced Fig Parrot, Red-Faced Fig Parrot, Dwarf Fig Parrot, Two-Eyed Fig Parrot
New Guinea, Australia
Forests, Lowland Subtropical Rainforest
Short Tail, Disproportionately Large Head and Bill, Red and Blue Facial Markings, Blue Spot On Lores
Figs, Berries, Seeds, Nectar, Grubs of Wood-Boring Insects
- Short and Shrill Call
- High-Pitched, Clipped, Two Or Three Note Calls
- Softer, Chattering Noises When Feeding
Excavate own nest cavities in rotten trees
About Double-eyed fig parrot
The double-eyed fig parrot, scientifically known as Cyclopsitta diophthalma, is a small and distinctive avian species found across New Guinea and parts of Australia. It is also recognized by several other common names, including the blue-faced fig parrot, red-faced fig parrot, dwarf fig parrot, and the two-eyed fig parrot.
Physical Characteristics and Appearance
This parrot is notable for being the smallest parrot species in Australia, with an average total length of about 14 cm. Its plumage is predominantly green, complemented by a very short tail, a head and bill that appear disproportionately large, and striking red and blue facial markings. A key identifying feature, particularly in New Guinean birds, is a blue spot on the lores that is roughly the same size as the bird's eyes, contributing to its name. Most subspecies exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males displaying more extensive red coloration on their faces compared to females.
Habitat and Distribution
The double-eyed fig parrot primarily inhabits forests on New Guinea and the surrounding islands. In Australia, it can be found in isolated communities along the tropical coast, specifically east of the Great Dividing Range. Its preferred environments include forests and lowland subtropical rainforests.
Behavior and Diet
These parrots are social creatures, typically foraging in pairs or small flocks of only a few individuals. Their diet consists mainly of figs, berries, seeds, and nectar. They also supplement their diet by consuming the grubs of wood-boring insects. Their flight is characterized by a quick and direct manner. A unique aspect of their nesting behavior is that they excavate their own nest cavities, usually in rotten trees, rather than utilizing existing holes.
Vocalizations
The vocalizations of the double-eyed fig parrot are distinct from many other parrot species. They produce high-pitched, clipped, two or three-note calls, often described as 'zzzt-zzzt' or 'zeet-zeet'. These calls are predominantly made while in flight, though they can also be heard when the birds are perched. When engrossed in feeding, they may also emit a variety of softer, chattering noises.
Subspecies and Conservation
Eight subspecies of the double-eyed fig parrot have been described. Three of these subspecies—C. d. coxeni, C. d. macleayana, and C. d. marshalli—are restricted to Australia, while the remaining five are found in New Guinea and its associated islands. While the species as a whole is assessed as being of Least Concern by the IUCN, certain subspecies face significant threats. Coxen's fig parrot (C. d. coxeni) is one of Australia's rarest birds, with limited recorded sightings since its description. It is classified as Endangered in Queensland, New South Wales, and nationally in Australia, largely due to the clearing of lowland subtropical rainforest within its range.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the double-eyed fig parrot's diet?
The double-eyed fig parrot primarily forages for figs, berries, seeds, and nectar. They also consume the grubs of wood-boring insects, which they find in their habitat.
Where does the double-eyed fig parrot live?
This species inhabits forests on New Guinea and its associated islands. Isolated communities are also found along the tropical coast of Australia, east of the Great Dividing Range.
What are the distinctive features of the double-eyed fig parrot?
It is characterized by its small size, predominantly green plumage, a very short tail, and a disproportionately large head and bill. Notable are its red and blue facial markings, with a blue spot on the lores being a key feature.
Are there any conservation concerns for this species?
While the species as a whole is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, certain subspecies are under threat. Coxen's fig parrot, for example, is critically endangered due to habitat clearing.
How do double-eyed fig parrots nest?
Unlike many other parrot species, double-eyed fig parrots do not use pre-existing tree holes. Instead, they actively excavate their own nest cavities, typically within rotten trees.
What are the vocalizations of the double-eyed fig parrot like?
They produce high-pitched, clipped, two or three note calls, such as 'zzzt-zzzt' or 'zeet-zeet', which are often made in flight. Softer chattering noises may be heard when they are feeding.
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