The blue-backed parrot, also known as Müller's parrot and Burbridge's parrot is a large, endangered species of parrot endemic to the Philippines. It is found in tropical moist lowland forest but is now feared locally extinct in a large part of its range including Negros, Panay, Leyte, Luzon and Polilio. The only recent records are in Samar, Mindanao and Tawi-tawi with the population being estimated below 250 individuals. Flocks are small and often active at night. Its main threats are habitat loss and trapping for the pet trade.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Philippines, it primarily inhabits tropical moist lowland forests, including primary and mature secondary growth. It uses forest edges, mangroves, and occasionally well-wooded agricultural areas where tall trees remain. It roosts in the canopy and nests in tree cavities, relying on large emergent trees. The species is now locally extinct in many former sites and survives in a few strongholds with low disturbance.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This nocturnally active parrot often calls and moves between roosts after dusk, unusual for many parrots. It persists in small, wary flocks and is highly dependent on intact lowland forests. Habitat loss and trapping for the pet trade have caused steep declines, leaving only remnant populations. Protecting remaining forests and preventing capture are critical for its survival.
T. s. burdbigii, found in the Sulu Archipelago
A Philippine postal stamp from 1984 featuring the Blue-backed parrot under the Tanygnathus sumatranus scientific before it was split with the Azure-rumped parrot
T. s. everetti
Temperament
shy and crepuscular
Flight Pattern
direct flight with steady, shallow wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, occasionally forming small flocks near feeding trees. Nests in natural cavities of large trees, with pairs defending the nest vicinity. Courtship involves mutual preening and soft contact calls at roosts. Roosting occurs communally in tall canopy trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, harsh squawks and screeches, often delivered at dusk and during the night. Calls carry far over forest canopies and can include lower, more nasal notes when birds are perched.
