Species Profile
Blossom-headed Parakeet
Psittacula roseata
Quick Facts
Conservation
NTNear ThreatenedLifespan
15–20 years
Length
33–36 cm
Weight
110–130 g
Wingspan
42–48 cm
Migration
Resident
Also known as: Rosy-headed Parakeet, Himalayapsitta roseata
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Appearance
The Blossom-headed Parakeet is a striking medium-sized parrot, primarily green in colour. Males have a distinctive rosy pink face that transitions to bluish-lilac on the back of the head, with a black neck ring. The body is bright green, including the rump. The tail is long and tapered, with central feathers showing pale yellow tips.
Females have a duller, grey-blue head instead of pink colouring. Both sexes have a red beak and grey legs. Juveniles are similar to females but have an all-green head.
Identification & Characteristics
Male Colors
- Primary
- Green
- Secondary
- Blue
- Beak
- Red
- Legs
- Grey
Female Colors
- Primary
- Green
- Secondary
- Blue
- Beak
- Red
- Legs
- Grey
Female Markings
Lacks pink head of male, has dull bluish-grey head instead
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Blossom-headed Parakeets inhabit a range of wooded habitats, including deciduous forests, bamboo groves, and cultivated areas with trees. They are found in parts of South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
While primarily resident, some local movements occur in response to food availability.
Distribution
Diet
Blossom-headed Parakeets are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of fruits, berries, nuts, and seeds. They have a particular fondness for figs and other soft fruits.
These parakeets also consume flower buds, nectar, and occasionally cultivated grains, sometimes leading to conflicts with farmers.
Behaviour
Blossom-headed Parakeets are highly social, often seen in small flocks or pairs. They are agile flyers, manoeuvring swiftly through forest canopies.
These parakeets are known for their acrobatic feeding habits, often hanging upside down to reach fruits and seeds on thin branches.
Calls & Sounds
Blossom-headed Parakeets have a variety of vocalisations, including sharp, high-pitched 'kee-kee' calls often given in flight. Their repertoire includes softer chattering and whistling notes when perched.
During courtship, males produce a series of melodious warbles and trills to attract females.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding season for Blossom-headed Parakeets typically occurs from January to April. Pairs form strong bonds and engage in mutual preening and feeding as part of courtship.
These parakeets are cavity nesters, often using natural tree hollows or abandoned woodpecker holes. The female lays 4-6 white, rounded eggs in the unlined cavity.
Incubation lasts about 22 days and is primarily performed by the female. Both parents care for the chicks, who fledge after approximately 7 weeks but remain dependent on them for several more weeks.
Conservation
The Blossom-headed Parakeet is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss and capture for the pet trade.
Conservation efforts focus on protecting its forest habitats and enforcing laws against illegal trapping and trade. Monitoring programs are in place to track population trends.
Population
Estimated: Not quantified, but the overall abundance appears to be much reduced across its range in recent decades[3]
Trend: Decreasing[2]
Elevation
Up to 1,500 meters
Additional Details
- Predators:
- Main predators include birds of prey such as hawks and eagles, as well as larger owls. Snakes and small mammals may also prey on eggs and nestlings.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for them in open woodlands and cultivated areas with trees
- Listen for their distinctive, sharp calls, especially at dawn and dusk
- Observe fruiting trees where they often feed in small groups
- Use binoculars to spot the male's pink head, which stands out against green foliage
Did You Know?
- Male Blossom-headed Parakeets develop their pink head colouration only after reaching maturity at about 3 years of age.
- These parakeets are known for their ability to mimic human speech and other sounds in captivity.
- They play a role in seed dispersal, contributing to forest regeneration in their native habitats.
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