Great hanging parrot

The great hanging parrot, also called Celebes hanging parrot, Sulawesi hanging parrot and maroon-rumped hanging parrot, is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to Sulawesi and nearby smaller islands in Indonesia, where it occurs in forest, secondary growth and tall mangrove.

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Distribution

Region

Sulawesi and nearby islands (Wallacea)

Typical Environment

It inhabits lowland and hill rainforests, tall secondary growth, and tall mangrove stands around Sulawesi and adjacent islets. The species is commonly seen along forest edges, riverine corridors, and in mixed-agroforestry where flowering and fruiting trees are abundant. It also forages in coconut groves and village orchards, especially when native food sources are scarce. Despite tolerance for modified habitats, it remains most numerous in intact forest mosaics.

Altitude Range

0–1200 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size13–15 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.028 kg

Female Weight0.03 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Hanging parrots are named for their habit of roosting and feeding while hanging upside down, bat-like. The great hanging parrot helps pollinate flowering trees as it visits blossoms for nectar and pollen. Males show a red throat patch absent in females, aiding quick sex identification in the field. It adapts well to forest edges and mangroves, and may visit gardens with fruiting or flowering trees.

Gallery

Nominate subspecies L. s. stigmatus in Sulawesi

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct dashes between trees

Social Behavior

Usually occurs in pairs or small, noisy parties that move quickly through the canopy. Nests in tree cavities, often in soft or decayed wood, and lines the nest with plant material. Courtship includes mutual preening and food-sharing. Roosts communally and often hangs upside down while resting.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Calls are high-pitched, thin squeaks and sharp chits, frequently delivered in rapid series while in flight. When perched, it emits soft chattering and twittering notes. Overall vocalizations are bright and penetrating, carrying well over the forest canopy.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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