The Nicobar parakeet, also known as the Blyth's parakeet, is a parrot in the genus Psittacula, endemic to the Nicobar Islands of the Indian Ocean. It is one of the largest parakeets, measuring 56 to 60 cm from the top of the head to the tip of the tail and weighing about 224 g.
Region
Nicobar Islands, eastern Indian Ocean
Typical Environment
The species is confined to forested islands across the Nicobar archipelago, favoring mature evergreen and semi-evergreen coastal forests. It frequently uses edges, secondary growth, and village groves, and readily visits coconut, areca, and other fruit plantations. Birds forage high in the canopy but also descend to mid-levels to exploit fruiting trees and palms. Mangrove fringes and littoral woodland are used on smaller islets. Nesting occurs in large tree cavities within undisturbed forest patches.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Blyth's parakeet, this is one of the largest Psittacula parakeets, with an impressively long tail that makes up much of its length. Its grey head and hefty bill are distinctive among Indian Ocean parrots. It is sensitive to habitat loss and trapping, and is legally protected in India. Flocks often visit coconut and fruit plantations, where they can be conspicuous and vocal.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small noisy flocks that commute between forest and cultivated areas. Nests in cavities of large trees, often reusing sites across years. Courtship involves mutual preening and bill-touching, and pairs maintain close contact while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, ringing screeches and harsh chattering notes carry over long distances. Contact calls are sharp, repeated kek-kek or kreee sounds, with excited flocks producing rapid, scolding series.
Plumage
Predominantly bright green with a contrasting smooth grey head and long tapering tail; flight feathers bluish with paler tips.
Diet
Feeds mainly on fruits, seeds, and nuts from native forest trees and palms. Common items include figs, pandanus, canarium, and cultivated coconut and areca. It also takes buds and flowers seasonally and may exploit crop plants when wild fruit is scarce. Birds use the robust bill to husk hard seeds and manipulate food with the feet.
Preferred Environment
Forages primarily in the canopy and upper mid-story of evergreen forest. Frequently visits edges, village trees, and plantations when fruiting is abundant. Will make short flights between clustered fruiting trees, often feeding in loose groups.
