The pygmy hanging parrot, red-billed hanging parrot or green hanging parrot is a tiny species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to forest, mangrove and other wooded habitats on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi. It is becoming rare due to habitat loss.
Region
Sulawesi, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary and secondary lowland forests, forest edge, mangroves, and wooded gardens within Sulawesi. It favors the canopy and mid-story, where it forages among flowering and fruiting trees. It can persist in degraded habitats if large fruiting trees and nectar sources remain. However, extensive conversion of lowland forest limits its range and local abundance.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The pygmy hanging parrot is one of the smallest parrots in Asia, often seen clinging or hanging upside down while feeding. It is confined to Sulawesi, Indonesia, where loss of lowland forest is reducing suitable habitat. Like other hanging parrots, it often carries nesting material tucked into its feathers. Its soft, high-pitched calls can be easily overlooked in dense foliage.
Temperament
shy and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct dashes between trees
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly, in pairs, or small parties that keep to the canopy. Nests in tree cavities; the female lines the nest with leaves, which are sometimes carried tucked into the rump feathers. Pairs are monogamous and defend small areas around nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Quiet, high-pitched squeaks and thin, twittering notes, often given in short series. Flight calls are sharp and brief, easily lost in background insect noise.
