The Mindoro racket-tail is a species of parrot in the Psittaculinae family. It was formerly considered conspecific with the blue-crowned racket-tail. It is endemic to the island of Mindoro in the Philippines and it occurs in tropical moist lowland forest. It is threatened by habitat loss and trapping for the cage-bird trade.
Region
Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs only on the island of Mindoro, where it inhabits tropical moist lowland and foothill forests. It uses primary and well-developed secondary forest, as well as forest edges and riverine corridors. The species typically forages high in the canopy and may visit fruiting trees in clearings and agroforestry areas. Large, old trees are important for nesting cavities, making intact forest crucial for its persistence.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This racket-tail is a small parrot with elongated central tail feathers ending in spatulate ‘rackets,’ used in display. It was formerly treated as conspecific with the blue-crowned racket-tail but is now recognized as distinct and confined to Mindoro. It is threatened by forest loss and trapping for the cage-bird trade, and survives mainly where mature trees remain.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small, noisy groups, especially at fruiting trees. Nests in natural cavities of large trees, where a small clutch is raised by both parents. Roosting may be communal near feeding sites when fruit is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, ringing screeches and high-pitched squeals, especially in flight. At rest it produces softer chattering and nasal notes used to maintain contact within the group.
