The masked shining parrot, also known as the masked parrot, masked musk parrot, or the yellow-breasted musk parrot is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to Viti Levu in Fiji. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical mangrove forest, subtropical or tropical moist montane forest, arable land, and rural gardens. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Fiji (South Pacific)
Typical Environment
The masked shining parrot inhabits Viti Levu’s lowland and foothill forests, mangroves, and forest edges, extending into montane forest where suitable cavities and feeding trees are available. It also uses secondary growth, plantations, and rural gardens, showing some tolerance of disturbed habitats. Birds are most often seen in the canopy but will descend to feed in cultivated fruit trees. Occasional sightings occur on nearby small islands and coastal areas where forest remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This large, glossy ‘shining’ parrot is found only on Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu and nearby islets. Its dark facial mask gives the species its common name. It readily visits cultivated areas and rural gardens to feed on fruit and flowers, which can bring it into contact with people. Ongoing habitat loss and degradation remain its principal threats.
showing back feathers
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy groups, especially at fruiting trees. It nests in natural tree cavities in mature forest or large secondary trees. Pairs maintain close contact calls and may defend the immediate nest area during breeding. Outside the breeding season small flocks may form around reliable food sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are loud, ringing screeches and harsh squawks interspersed with clearer whistles. In flight they give repeated contact notes; perched birds may produce softer chattering and piping notes while foraging.
Plumage
Glossy green plumage with a contrasting dark facial mask and brighter yellow to yellow-green underparts; wings and tail show a subtle bluish sheen.
Diet
Primarily takes native and cultivated fruits, berries, and seeds. It also feeds on flowers and nectar and will visit flowering trees regularly. Birds may occasionally consume buds and tender leaf material, and they frequently exploit fruiting trees in gardens and plantations.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the forest canopy and along edges where fruiting and flowering trees are abundant. It also uses mangroves, secondary growth, and agricultural mosaics, often entering villages and rural gardens to feed.
