The modest tiger parrot is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is found in the Arfak Mountains and New Guinea Highlands. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs across the central cordillera of New Guinea, including the Arfak Mountains on the Bird’s Head Peninsula and other highland ranges. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, especially mossy forest, forest edges, and dense secondary growth. The species often uses bamboo thickets and fruiting trees within the mid- to upper-story. It is generally sedentary within suitable habitat but may move locally to track fruiting resources.
Altitude Range
1000–3500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The modest tiger parrot is a small, quiet parrot of the New Guinea highlands, named for the fine, tiger-like barring on its plumage. It is typically shy and cryptic, moving unobtrusively through mossy montane forests. Unlike many louder parrots, it keeps a low profile and is more often detected by soft calls and close-range views. Its specialized montane habitat makes intact high-elevation forests important for its persistence.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through dense foliage
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Nests are presumed to be in tree cavities like many parrots, with breeding timed to local seasonal fruiting. Foraging is quiet and methodical, often within mid-canopy to subcanopy layers.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft and subdued, including thin piping notes and gentle chirps. Calls are delivered intermittently from cover, making the bird easier to hear at close range than at distance.
Plumage
Compact, predominantly green parrot with fine dark barring on the underparts and a softer, mossy texture suited to montane cover. Underparts and flanks show subtle, narrow striping that gives a ‘tigered’ look. Wings and back are solid green with minimal contrast.
Diet
Primarily consumes small fruits and berries, including those of forest trees and shrubs. Also takes seeds and buds, and may sample flowers when available. Feeds selectively at fruiting trees and within dense foliage, swallowing smaller fruits whole and nibbling at larger ones.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mossy montane forest, especially along edges, gaps, and around fruiting trees. Frequently uses bamboo patches and dense secondary growth where fruits are abundant.
