Meyer's parrot, also known as the brown parrot, is a species of parrot native to Africa. A Meyer's parrot has grey feathers, turquoise belly, blue rump, and bright yellow markings on the carpal joint of the wings. Most subspecies have some yellow on the top of the head as well. Forshaw (1989) recognizes six subspecies of P. meyeri which vary in home range, size and in markings, including the extent of yellow markings to the head and wings, and the intensity of turquoise markings on the belly and rump.
Region
Central and Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occupies savanna and open woodland, especially miombo (Brachystegia), mopane (Colophospermum mopane), and acacia-Combretum woodlands. Often uses riparian corridors and floodplain edges with large trees for nesting cavities. Avoids dense rainforest and the most arid deserts, favoring mosaic habitats with scattered tall trees. Occurs from Angola and southern DRC through Zambia and Tanzania to northern Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, with local variability tied to food and nest site availability.
Altitude Range
200–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Also called the brown parrot, Meyer's parrot is a small, stocky African Poicephalus known for yellow shoulder patches and a turquoise belly and rump. It nests in tree cavities and may follow seasonal food sources, leading to local nomadic movements. Six recognized subspecies vary in size and the extent of yellow and blue markings. In aviculture it is considered comparatively quiet for a parrot, but it is not domesticated.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small groups; larger flocks can form at abundant food sources or communal roosts. Monogamous pairs nest in natural tree cavities, often reusing sites. Breeding is timed with local rains and food flushes.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include clear, high-pitched whistles and chattering trills, interspersed with sharp, nasal squawks. Calls carry well over woodland and are used to keep contact while foraging.
Plumage
Compact parrot with brownish-grey head and upperparts, turquoise to blue belly and rump, and bright yellow patches at the carpal 'shoulders'; some subspecies show yellow on the crown.
Diet
Feeds on seeds, nuts, and fruits from woodland trees such as acacias, mopane, and figs, and also takes flowers, buds, and grain when available. Will occasionally consume insect larvae and other invertebrates, especially during breeding. Can visit agricultural areas to raid millet, sorghum, or maize.
Preferred Environment
Forages in tree canopies and along woodland edges, often moving between fruiting or seeding trees. Also feeds in riparian trees and occasionally on the ground beneath feeding sites.
