The Comoros black parrot is a medium-sized parrot endemic to the Comoros. Historically, it has been treated as a subspecies of the lesser vasa parrot, although it shows morphological, ecological and behavioural differences. It was split as a distinct species by the IOC in 2021.
Region
Comoros Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs across the main Comorian islands in humid evergreen forests, secondary woodland, and along forest edges. It readily uses agroforestry landscapes, including coconut groves, fruit orchards, and mixed plantations. On larger islands it ascends into montane forest, including slopes around Mount Karthala, and also forages in disturbed habitats near villages. The species nests in natural cavities of large trees and sometimes in dead snags. Local movements follow fruiting trees and seasonal food availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Comoro black parrot is a medium-sized vasa parrot endemic to the Comoros and was elevated to full species by the IOC in 2021 after long being treated as a subspecies of the lesser vasa parrot. It is adaptable, using native forests as well as plantations and village trees. Like other vasa parrots, it shows seasonal changes in the bill, which can become paler during breeding. Its calls include distinctive sibilant whistles, reflected in the species name sibilans.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with strong wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms small, noisy flocks outside the breeding season and gathers at fruiting trees. Pairs nest in tree cavities, with both adults participating in nest defense and feeding. Roosting can be communal near reliable food sources. Breeding generally aligns with wetter periods when food is most abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include harsh croaks and rasping contact calls interspersed with clear, sibilant whistles. Flight calls carry over long distances, while softer chattering is given at feeding sites.
Plumage
Uniform sooty-brown to blackish with a slightly paler tone on underparts; feathers appear matte and plain with minimal patterning.
Diet
Feeds on a wide variety of fruits (such as figs, guava, and mango), seeds, buds, and flowers. It also takes nectar and occasionally invertebrates like beetle larvae and caterpillars. The species readily exploits cultivated fruit and can forage opportunistically in plantations. Grit and mineral-rich soil may be ingested to aid digestion.
Preferred Environment
Typically forages in mid to upper canopy of native forest, along edges, and in secondary growth. Frequently visits orchards, coconut groves, and mixed plantations near villages. Will descend to lower vegetation where fruiting shrubs are abundant.
