The Bismarck hanging parrot or green-fronted hanging parrot is a small species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to forest in the Bismarck Archipelago in Papua New Guinea. It is threatened by habitat loss. It is sometimes considered a subspecies of the orange-fronted hanging parrot.
Region
Melanesia
Typical Environment
Occupies lowland and foothill tropical forests, including primary rainforest, edges, and well-vegetated secondary growth. It readily visits flowering and fruiting trees in garden mosaics, coconut groves, and village areas adjoining forest. Often forages in the canopy but will descend to midstory when trees are in bloom. Tolerates some habitat modification if mature trees remain, but declines where extensive clearing removes forest cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the green-fronted hanging parrot, it is a tiny, acrobatic loriculid that often sleeps and roosts upside down. It is confined to the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea and frequents flowering and fruiting trees. Some taxonomies have treated it as a subspecies of the orange-fronted hanging parrot. Ongoing forest loss in its range poses a threat to local populations.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups that move quickly between fruiting and flowering trees. Nests in tree cavities, with the female incubating while the male often feeds her at the nest entrance. Outside breeding, small flocks may form where food is abundant. They roost communally and may hang upside down when resting.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin, and piercing calls given in flight, often a rapid series of squeaks and whistles. At rest, emits softer contact notes and chatters while foraging.
