Blue-winged Parrot

Blue-winged Parrots are small, ground-feeding parrots whose dispersal or migratory patterns are not fully understood. They are found principally in the south-east corner of the continent including Tasmania. Many birds, but apparently not all, migrate north in the winter and return south in summer. It is believed some Tasmanian birds cross Bass Strait.

In this district, Blue-winged Parrots tend to occupy grassy, heathy and coastal woodlands. They have an extremely high and thin tinkling call. In small flocks, they feed on the seeds of grasses and herbs on the ground. Their excellent camouflage often means they are not seen until approached closely, when they fly rapidly to nearby trees or fence wires to wait for the intruder to retreat or pass by. 

Like all our parrots and many other birds, Blue-winged Parrots need tree hollows for nesting.