The Moluccan eclectus is a parrot native to the Maluku Islands (Moluccas). It is unusual in the parrot order for its extreme sexual dimorphism of the colours of the plumage; the male having a mostly bright emerald green plumage and the female a mostly bright red and purple/blue plumage. Joseph Forshaw, in his book Parrots of the World, noted that the first European ornithologists to see eclectus parrots thought they were of two distinct species. Large populations of this parrot remain, and they are sometimes considered pests for eating fruit off trees. Some populations restricted to relatively small islands are comparably rare. Their bright feathers are also used by native tribespeople in New Guinea as decorations.
Region
Maluku Islands
Typical Environment
Found in lowland and hill tropical rainforests, forest edges, and secondary growth across parts of the central Moluccas. They frequent the canopy and forest margins but also visit gardens and plantations to feed on cultivated fruits. Nesting typically occurs in large, mature trees with deep hollows. While tolerant of some habitat modification, they depend on old-growth trees for suitable nest sites.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The Moluccan eclectus shows extreme sexual dimorphism: males are vivid emerald green while females are crimson with blue to purple underparts. Early European ornithologists even described the sexes as different species. On some small islands they can be scarce, but on larger islands they may be common and sometimes raid fruit crops. Their bright feathers have been traditionally used for adornment by Indigenous peoples in the region.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with strong wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small groups, forming larger feeding flocks where food is abundant. They nest in deep tree hollows, which females vigorously defend. The breeding system is unusual among parrots, with females remaining near nest sites while males range widely and may provision multiple females.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud and penetrating, including sharp squawks and screeches that carry over long distances. They also give conversational chattering and more mellow whistles when feeding or at roost.
