Australian King-Parrot

1. Males: Entirely orange-red head, breast, and belly with green back and wings

2. Females: Green head and breast with a bright orange-red belly

3. Loud, metallic “squeak” call, reminiscent of a creaking hinge

King Parrots feed mainly on seeds from native trees such as eucalypts and acacias, as well as fruits, berries, buds, and blossoms. They have adapted well to human environments, often visiting gardens and orchards to feed on introduced fruits and seeds. Breeding takes place from September to January, with females nesting in deep hollows in mature trees. Clutch size is usually 3–6 eggs, and only the female incubates while the male provides food. Chicks fledge after about five weeks and may join flocks of other juveniles. While generally stable, their dependence on large, hollow-bearing trees for nesting means that loss of mature forest can impact local populations.

Australian King Parrots inhabit forests and woodlands along eastern Australia, from northern Queensland through New South Wales to Victoria. They prefer rainforest, tall eucalyptus woodland, and dense riparian scrub, but are also regularly seen in parks and gardens with mature trees. In southern regions, they may move from higher elevations to lowlands in autumn. Look for them along forest edges, in tall trees near water, or feeding quietly in suburban gardens, especially during early morning and late afternoon. They are usually seen in pairs or small family groups, but may form flocks where food is abundant.