The Geelvink pygmy parrot is a species of parrot in the family Psittacidae endemic to Biak and Numfoor islands in Western New Guinea. The name Geelvink comes from a Dutch ship and family called Geelvinck. It has two subspecies; the nominate occurs on Numfor, and M. g. misoriensis on Biak.
Region
Cenderawasih Bay Islands, West Papua
Typical Environment
This species is restricted to the oceanic islands of Biak and Numfoor off the northwest coast of New Guinea. It occupies primary and secondary lowland rainforest, forest edges, and coconut groves. Birds spend much of their time on trunks and larger branches, where lichens and mosses are abundant. They will also use wooded gardens and disturbed forest as long as mature trees remain. The species is typically local and easily overlooked due to its quiet habits.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Among the smallest parrots on Earth, pygmy parrots are remarkable bark-gleaners that scuttle along trunks like nuthatches. The Geelvink pygmy parrot is confined to Biak and Numfoor in Cenderawasih (Geelvink) Bay, Indonesia, and its name honors the Dutch Geelvinck family. Its diet is unusual for a parrot, focusing heavily on lichens and fungi, with some tiny invertebrates. It is secretive and rarely seen for long, often sticking close to tree trunks in shaded forest.
Temperament
secretive and agile
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small family groups. Nests are thought to be placed in small cavities in soft or decaying wood, including palm stubs, and possibly in old arboreal termite nests. Courtship and pair bonds are discreet, with partners keeping close contact while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High-pitched, thin seee and tssip notes, often given while clinging to bark. Vocalizations are soft and easily missed against forest background noise.
