The black-fronted fig parrot is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is found in northern New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Northern New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occupies subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests across the northern belt of New Guinea, including riverine and swamp-edge forests. It frequents primary and mature secondary forests where fig trees are abundant. Birds also visit forest edges, tall second-growth, and occasionally gardens adjoining forest. It usually forages high in the canopy but may descend to mid-levels at fruiting trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This tiny parrot depends heavily on fig trees, often moving between fruiting trees and helping disperse seeds across the forest. It is fast-flying and usually detected by sharp, high-pitched calls rather than by sight. Like other fig parrots, it can excavate nest chambers in soft or decayed wood using its stout bill. It is generally uncommon in aviculture and best left in its native habitat.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; swift, direct flight between canopy trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups, sometimes joining mixed-species feeding flocks at fruiting figs. Pairs are likely monogamous and nest in cavities or soft, decayed wood that they may excavate themselves. They roost in cover within the canopy and show strong fidelity to productive feeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin, and piercing, often a series of sharp, clipped notes given in flight. At feeding sites they add soft twitters and chattering contact calls.
Plumage
Compact, bright green parrot with a contrasting dark (blackish) forecrown and colorful facial patches. Plumage is smooth and glossy; underparts green with yellowish undertail. Short tail and stout bill.
Diet
Primarily consumes figs (Ficus spp.), supplemented by other soft fruits and berries. Also takes nectar and pollen when available, and may ingest seeds within fruit. Occasional ingestion of small invertebrates or larvae may occur incidentally while feeding.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy at fruiting fig trees and along riverine corridors where figs are common. It will also utilize forest edges and mature secondary growth with suitable fruiting trees.
