Coracopsis – Vasa parrot

Native to Madagascar and the nearby Comoros Islands, these birds are remarkable not for bright colors or mimicry, but for their dark plumage, unusual behavior, and complex social lives. Unlike their vibrantly feathered tropical relatives, vasa parrots possess a mysterious, almost prehistoric look that perfectly suits the ancient landscapes of Madagascar.

The genus name Coracopsis comes from Greek roots meaning “crow-like appearance,” a fitting description since these parrots are dark, sleek, and long-necked, often mistaken for crows at first glance. The greater and lesser vasa parrots are the best-known members of the group, with the former being larger (around 50 cm or 20 inches long) and the latter smaller and more compact (about 35 cm or 14 inches long). Both share the same sooty brown to gray-black coloration, long tails, and slim bodies, giving them a uniquely elegant, almost reptilian look compared to other parrots’ stocky builds.

Vasa parrots are notable for their unusual sexual dimorphism—a rarity among parrots. During the breeding season, females undergo dramatic changes: their facial feathers shed, the skin turns bright yellow-orange, and the exposed head gives them an almost alien appearance. Males, meanwhile, develop a chalky white beak, signaling readiness to breed. This transformation is temporary but striking, and it coincides with one of the most unusual mating systems among birds.

Unlike most monogamous parrots, vasa parrots exhibit polyandry and communal breeding—one female may mate with multiple males. The males then compete not through fighting, but by offering food gifts and taking turns feeding the nesting female. The nesting female often locks herself in a hollow tree cavity for several weeks while the males bring her food, ensuring she can incubate the eggs in safety. This highly social and cooperative system is unique in the parrot world and has intrigued scientists for decades.