Eclectus
parrots are found in Lesser Sundas, Solomon islands, New Guinea,
and NE Australia. In the early 1980's they were found to be
among the most common parrots in the Moluccan Islands. They
are birds of lowland forests and clumps of tall trees. Both
sexes are glossy, brilliant birds, but the male is bright
green with blue and red patches, while the female is crimson
with a blue belly.
These birds are strong fliers and on long flights, they fly
high above the forest canopy. Calling loudly, pairs or small
parties travel widely through the upper canopy in search of
fruits, nuts, nectar and leaf buds. In the evening they engage
in display flights before gathering in large groups of up
to 80 birds to roost for the night.
They
have two distinct calls. In flight a harsh, screeching is
repeated three or four times. While feeding they have a wailing
cry or a mellow flute-like call.
Eclectus parrots feed on fruits, seeds, nuts, berries, leaf
buds, blossoms and nectar, all of which are procured mainly
in the treetops.
