The eastern bluebonnet, also known as the greater bluebonnet, is an Australian parrot, one of two species in the genus Northiella. It was originally included in the genus Psephotus but due to distinctive physical and behavioural differences was reclassified into its own genus in 1994 by ornithologists and taxonomists Christidis and Boles. The bluebonnet is a medium-sized inland parrot commonly found in the interior of southeastern and central-southern Australia. It is adapted to life in semi-arid regions but can also flourish in regions of medium rainfall towards the eastern and southern extremities of its range.
Region
Southeast and south-central Australia
Typical Environment
Found across the inland of New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and into southwestern Queensland, favoring open eucalypt woodlands, acacia scrubs, mallee, and chenopod shrublands. It frequents pastoral lands, roadside verges, and the edges of croplands where water and seed are available. The species avoids dense forests and humid coastal zones. It often concentrates near waterholes and farm dams during dry periods.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Also called the greater bluebonnet, this parrot is adapted to Australia’s semi‑arid interior and often forages quietly on the ground. It was moved from Psephotus to its own genus Northiella in 1994 due to distinctive morphology and behavior. Pairs are strongly bonded and nest in hollows of eucalypts or mallee trees.
In South Australia
Feeding on the ground in Griffith, New South Wales
Temperament
wary but moderately social
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flight over open country
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups; larger loose flocks may gather at water sources. Pairs are monogamous and nest in tree hollows, often in eucalypts or mallee. Clutch size is typically 4–6 eggs, and both parents attend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, tinkling contact calls and mellow whistles, often given in flight. When alarmed, it emits harsher chattering notes but is generally quieter than many other parrots.
