The crimson shining parrot is a parrot from Fiji. The species is endemic to the islands of Kadavu and Ono in the Kadavu Group. The species was once considered conspecific with the red shining parrot of Vanua Levu and Taveuni, but is now considered its own species. The species is sometimes known as the Kadavu musk parrot.
Region
Fiji Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs naturally only on Kadavu and nearby Ono in the Kadavu Group. It inhabits primary and secondary tropical moist forest, forest edges, and wooded plantations. Birds frequently visit village gardens and fruiting trees and may cross short sea channels between islands. It relies on mature trees for nesting cavities and feeding resources.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also called the Kadavu musk parrot, it is endemic to the Fijian islands of Kadavu and Ono. It was formerly treated as conspecific with the red shining parrot but is now recognized as a distinct species. Its glossy, ‘shining’ plumage and loud calls make it conspicuous in forest canopies. Habitat loss and trapping exert pressure on this small-range island species.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with strong, direct flights between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes forming loose flocks at fruiting trees. Nests in natural cavities of large trees, with both parents attending the young. Pairs maintain small territories around nest sites and feed widely in surrounding forest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud and raucous, including harsh screeches, rolling squawks, and piercing contact calls. In relaxed contexts it gives softer chattering notes while foraging.
