SWIFT PARROT

The 'Swift Parrot' (''Lathamus discolor'') inhabits south eastern Australia from Griffith-Warialda in Queensland to Tasmania and west to Adelaide. It is related to the rosellas, with the feeding habits of a lorikeet. It is the only member in the genus '''Lathamus'''.

Contents

Breeding and social habits

Habitat

Diet

References

Breeding and social habits

The species only breeds in Tasmania during September-December, in tree hollows 6–20 metres high and usually with other breeding pairs. Eggs are round and white with 3–5 per laying.
Colour is mild green with bluish crown, bronze mantle, tip of wings brown, tail red, a bit like the Musk Lorikeet.
Voice is of high pitched tinking chattering, piping pee-pit, pee-pit.

Habitat

Usually inhabiting: forests, woodlands, agricultural land and plantations, and also in urban areas.

Diet

Seeds and grains, green vegetation, fruit, nectar and pollen, insects and larvae.

References

★ Database entry includes a range map, a brief justification of why this species is endangered, and the criteria used

★ ''Field guide to the birds of Australia'' Graham Pizzey and Frank Knight, Angus & Robertson 1997, 3rd edition 2000. ISBN 0-207-19714-8

★ BirdLife Species Factsheet