Superb Parrot

Hi! I’m a Superb Parrot

The brightly coloured Superb Parrot inhabits southeast Australia. They live near waterways, in small family groups or flocks. They are often spotted on the ground, feeding on seeds and grasses, though they also consume nectar, insects, fruits and berries. Superb Parrots nest in deep tree hollows, commonly Red River Gums. Due to the destruction and loss of old forrests and trees, it's become harder for parrots to find approriate nesting sites. The National Recovery Plan for the Superb Parrot has been implemented to help parrot populations recover, including within the Australian Capital Territory.

The National Zoo & Aquarium is home to 3 Superb Parrots: Coriander, and Mint.

Superb Parrot Facts

Taxonomy

Polytelis swainsonii

Population Movement

Increasing

Current Animals

Mint, Coriander

Life Span (captive)

25 years

Weight

150g

Reproduction

Parrots nest between September to December.

Superb parrots will form small flocks before females leave for nesting, laying 4-6 eggs in a clutch. The males will remain in the flock collecting food for the females 2-3 times a day, flying distances of approximately 10km from the nest site to forage.

Once eggs are hatched both parents will feed the nestling till it reaches fledging.

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Group Count

2

Life Span (wild)

15-25 years

Size

40cm long

Gestation

22 day incubation period

Distribution

Throughout the inland slopes and plains of NSW, including the ACT, and extends into northern Victoria.