Black parrot with yellow tail | Facts & Information

Origin

It can be found in forests from Southern and Central Queensland to south-eastern Australia. It has become a relatively common parrot in Australia although the species is in decline and the number of specimens is decreasing due to habitat shrinkage, i.e. felling of trees. Due to the loss of the environment the bird has adapted to living with humans, so it can be seen in cities such as Sydney or Melbourne.

Although it is a beautiful bird it is not known in aviculture outside Australia. It was first described in 1794 by the English naturalist George Shaw. In 1826 it was classified in another genus. The scientific name derives from Greek words meaning "hidden beak".

It climbs in altitude up to 2000m. they live in a variety of habitats, including forests, subalpine areas, pine plantations, urban areas, and other areas where food is abundant.

Feeding Black-Yellow Parrot

Unlike other cockatoo parrots and other parrots in general this breed feeds mainly on wood larvae.

Besides larvae eat seeds, insects, etc.

Food varies depending on the habitat. Besides larvae they feed on the seeds of trees (eucalyptus, acacia, banksia, etc.)

Features Black-Yellow Parrot

The black-yellow cockatoo parrot has a length of 55 – 65cm and a weight of 750-900 grams. It has a short crest at the top of its head and black feathers. It is distinguished from other black cockatoo parrots by yellow spots in the area of the ears and tail.

It is a diurnal bird, rarely noisy before being seen. Adults are generally quieter, especially when eating.

Calyptorhynchus funereus funereus

Calyptorhynchus funereus xanthanotus

Breeding Black-Yellow Parrot

The black-yellow cockatoo parrot nests in hollows located at height. The hollows are large in diameter. Eucalyptus trees are generally chosen. The same hollows can be used for many years in a row. They are 1-2m deep and 30 to 50cm in diameter.

The breeding season varies by altitude, from April to July in Queensland, from January to May in New South Wales and from October to February in Victoria. Sexual maturity is reached at the age of 4-6 years.

The male raises his crest and plows his tail with yellow feathers to attract the female. Then make a few bows. Both male and female prepare the nest for hatching. Then they prepare the nest from the branches in the hollow and participate in the growth of the chicks. The Nest will have one or two eggs.

The second egg is two millimeters smaller and is laid over 2-7 days. The female incubates the eggs alone, and the male brings food 3-4 times a day. Incubation lasts 28-31 days. Chickens have yellow fluff and a pink beak. Feathers grow after 3 months. They stay with their parents until the next breeding season.

Life expectancy is up to 50 years. At a zoo a pair lived 37 and 41 years.