| Range: |
Australia |
| Habitat: |
Scrublands |
| Conservation Status: |
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| Scientific Name: |
Neopsephotus bourkii |
These colorful little birds are often called "grass parrots" in their native Australia. That's because, although they can fly, they spend most of their time on the ground. They make their nests in hollow tree trunks and low branches. The birds spend the heat of the day resting in the shade, but emerge at dusk and dawn to drink and to feed on fallen seeds.
Bourke's parakeets live in dry, open scrubland. They're normally seen in pairs or small groups. During times of drought, however, they can gather at watering holes in larger groups of up to several hundred birds. They keep in touch with soft, tinkling calls, which are usually heard only when they fly. A male and a female usually keep the same mate season after season. Both parents help feed the growing chicks, which are able to fend for themselves after only a few weeks.
The number of Bourke's parakeets declined in the early 20th century because of habitat destruction. But today their populations seem to be on the rise, thanks to conservation efforts. The birds are still protected in Australia.
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