Alisterus – King parrots

Found in eastern Australia, Papua New Guinea, and nearby islands, these birds stand out in the rainforest canopy with their brilliant red, green, and blue plumage. Unlike cockatoos with their flashy crests or lorikeets with their constant chatter, king parrots are a little more reserved, often moving quietly through the forest in pairs or small groups. They are medium to large parrots with long tails, strong, curved beaks, and smooth, almost silky feathers that make them look especially polished.

What makes Alisterus species different from other parrots is their bold and elegant coloration. The Australian king parrot (Alisterus scapularis), for example, is instantly recognizable: males wear a striking crimson head and chest with emerald-green wings, while females are mostly green, blending more easily into the forest. The Papuan king parrot (Alisterus chloropterus) and Moluccan king parrot (Alisterus amboinensis) share similarly rich hues, though each has its own pattern of reds, greens, and blues. These vibrant colors aren’t just for beauty—they also help them blend into the bright rainforest light, where dappled sun and leaves make even the boldest red harder to spot.

While many parrots are noisy and boisterous, king parrots are comparatively quiet, with soft whistles and calls that carry gently through the trees. They feed mainly on seeds, fruits, berries, and blossoms, often visiting orchards, gardens, and bird feeders in search of snacks. In the wild, they’re most often seen flying through the forest canopy or perching quietly in pairs, as they are strongly monogamous and usually travel with their mate.