Philippine hanging parrot
The Philippine hanging parrot, also known as the colasisi, is a small parrot species endemic to the Philippines. It is characterized by its predominantly green plumage with varying accents of red, orange, yellow, and blue depending on the subspecies. This adaptable species inhabits various forest types and even human-modified areas, but faces significant threats from habitat loss and the illegal pet trade, with some subspecies feared to be extinct.
Key Facts
- ›Approximately 14 cm (5.5 in) in length and weighing 32–40 grams.
- ›Primarily green plumage with red, orange, yellow, and blue markings that vary by subspecies.
- ›Found in tropical moist lowland and montane forests, bamboo forests, and human-modified habitats.
- ›Feeds on nectar, flowers, and soft fruits, particularly figs.
- ›Nesting occurs from March to may, utilizing tree cavities and incorporating nesting material into the nest.
- ›Listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, though some subspecies are critically endangered or possibly extinct.
Colasisi
Philippines
Tropical Moist Lowland Forests, Bamboo Forests, Tropical Moist Montane Forests, Coconut Groves, Secondary Forests
Short, Rounded Tail, Red Forehead, Red Beak, Sexual Dimorphism In Plumage
Nectar, Flowers, Soft Fruits
- Usually encountered alone or in pairs, rarely in small groups.
Not Specified In Text
- Cavity nester
- Nests in cavities high up in dead trees
- Female tucks nesting material between feathers to transport it to the nest
About Philippine hanging parrot
The Philippine hanging parrot, scientifically known as Loriculus philippensis and colloquially as the colasisi, is a small parrot species native exclusively to the Philippines. These birds are characterized by their predominantly green plumage, which is often accented with striking patches of red, orange, yellow, and blue, with the specific coloration varying significantly among their approximately nine recognized subspecies. Measuring around 14 cm in length and weighing between 32 to 40 grams, they possess a distinctive short, rounded tail and are known for their unique habit of hanging upside down.
Distribution and Habitat
This species is found throughout the Philippine archipelago, inhabiting a range of environments from tropical moist lowland and montane forests to bamboo forests. They have also demonstrated adaptability by occupying human-modified landscapes such as coconut groves and secondary forests. While generally common in lowland areas, they become rarer at higher altitudes, typically above 1250 meters.
Diet and Behavior
Philippine hanging parrots are primarily frugivores and nectarivores, feeding on nectar, flowers, and soft fruits, with figs being a notable component of their diet. They are typically observed alone or in pairs, with sightings of small groups being infrequent. Their breeding season generally falls between March and May. As cavity nesters, they utilize holes in trees, and distinctively, the female transports nesting material by tucking it between her feathers.
Conservation and Threats
Globally, the Philippine hanging parrot is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its wide range and adaptability. However, several subspecies face severe threats. Habitat loss significantly impacts their populations, but a more pressing danger is their prevalence in the illegal wildlife trade, with many birds being trapped and sold as pets. Alarmingly, some subspecies, such as those from Cebu and Siquijor, are feared to be extinct, and hybridization with escaped pets is also a concern in certain areas.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Philippine hanging parrot commonly called?
The Philippine hanging parrot is also commonly known as the colasisi, derived from its local Tagalog name 'kulasisi'. This name is frequently used in its native region.
What are the main threats to the Philippine hanging parrot?
The primary threats to the Philippine hanging parrot are habitat loss and extensive trapping for the illegal wildlife trade. Wild-caught birds are often sold as pets, contributing to population declines.
Are there any subspecies of the Philippine hanging parrot that might be extinct?
Yes, the Cebu hanging parrot (L. p. chrysonotus) and the Siquijor hanging parrot (L. p. siquijorensis) are both listed as likely extinct. Other subspecies are also considered threatened.
What is the typical diet of the Philippine hanging parrot?
The Philippine hanging parrot primarily feeds on nectar and flowers. They also consume soft fruits, with figs being a notable part of their diet.
How do Philippine hanging parrots build their nests?
These parrots are cavity nesters, typically nesting high up in dead trees. Uniquely among parrots, the female tucks nesting material between her feathers to transport it to the nest.
What are the physical characteristics of the Philippine hanging parrot?
They are small parrots, measuring about 14 cm long, with a short, rounded tail. Their plumage is mainly green, accented with red on the forehead and chin (in males), and other colors like orange, yellow, and blue that vary by subspecies. Adults have red beaks and dark brown irises.
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