The pink-billed parrotfinch is a species of estrildid finch found on the island of Viti Levu, Fiji. Commonly found at undisturbed mature forest in the centre and east of Viti Levu, e.g. Joske's Thumb near Suva. This species is found at mid-height along tree-trunks and branches, usually alone or in pairs but also joining mixed-species flocks, feeding primarily on insects, but also on flower buds and fruits.
Region
South Pacific (Fiji)
Typical Environment
Occurs only on Viti Levu, chiefly in mature, undisturbed rainforest of the central and eastern highlands. It keeps to interior forest and forested ridges, using the mid-story and larger branches and trunks for foraging. It is rarely recorded in heavily logged or fragmented habitats and generally avoids plantations. Birds may join mixed-species flocks moving through the mid-canopy and are most often seen singly or in pairs.
Altitude Range
200–1100 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive parrotfinch is confined to the island of Viti Levu in Fiji and is one of the archipelago’s least observed birds. It forages at mid-levels in mature forest and often joins mixed-species flocks, where its stout, pale pink bill is a key field mark. It is highly sensitive to forest disturbance and is most frequently encountered in undisturbed, mid-elevation rainforest.
Pink-billed parrotfinch, Savura Creek, Viti Levu
The endemic Fiji goshawk is a specialist predator of small birds
Temperament
quiet, wary, and active within dense foliage
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between branches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, but frequently associates with mixed-species flocks moving through the mid-story. Likely nests in concealed sites within dense vegetation in mature forest. Territoriality appears modest, with pairs foraging within a shared range in suitable habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, high, thin notes and short twittering phrases delivered from cover. Calls are subtle contact ticks used while moving with flocks and can be easily overlooked in forest ambient noise.
Plumage
Mostly green with darker olive wings and back; clean, even coloration with a subtle bluish wash on the face in good light. Feathers are smooth and sleek, giving a neat, compact appearance.
Diet
Primarily takes insects and other small invertebrates gleaned from bark, epiphytes, and foliage. Also consumes flower buds and small fruits when available. Will occasionally probe into clusters of leaves or moss for hidden prey and may supplement with seeds opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Feeds at mid-heights along trunks and thicker branches within mature rainforest. Often follows mixed flocks through fruiting or flowering trees and along forested ridges.
