Eastern Rosella

1. Bright red head and chest with white cheek patches

2. Scalloped black and yellow (or green) pattern on the back

3. Yellow upper belly fading to green, with red undertail coverts

Eastern Rosellas are primarily ground feeders, eating a wide variety of seeds from grasses, shrubs, and trees, as well as fruits, buds, flowers, nectar, and insects. They are omnivorous and have been recorded feeding on up to 50 different plant species and 15 species of animals. They are skilled foragers, often using one foot to hold food while eating. Breeding occurs from August to February. The female chooses and prepares the nest, usually in a tree hollow, stump, fence post, or even artificial sites like nest boxes. Clutch size is typically 4–8 eggs, incubated for about 19 days, with chicks remaining in the nest for around 32 days. Pairs often mate for life, and the male regularly feeds the incubating female.

Eastern Rosellas are widespread across southeastern Australia, from Queensland to Victoria, southeastern South Australia, and Tasmania. They have also been introduced to New Zealand. These birds prefer lightly wooded environments, including open forests, woodland edges, riverine corridors, farmland with scattered trees, and urban parks and gardens. They are often seen feeding on the ground or in low shrubs, especially during the early morning when they are most active.