Superb Parrot
Polytelis swainsonii
Habitat Red gum forest and woodland
IUCN Status Least Concern, previously Vulnerable
The superb parrot nests and forages in the riparian forests of Victoria and New South Wales.
You may have heard that the recovery of a species is often closely tied to its surrounding environment. The superb parrot is a good example.
Superb parrots rely on tree hollows to build their nests. The types of hollows they use are typically found in large dead or ageing gum trees, meaning when those trees are cut down, these birds lose habitat that is very difficult to replace. A projected decline in suitable nest hollows over the next two decades means that this recovering species could once again become at risk. It also means that protected places such as Mulligans Flat will only become more precious and essential to the survival of species such as these beautiful parrots.
Photograph by Julie Clarke