The royal parrotfinch is a species of estrildid finch endemic to Vanuatu in the South Pacific Ocean. It is found commonly at mid-altitudes on the larger islands such as Espiritu Santo, above 300 m., but it also can be found at small sea-level islands in fruiting figs in forest edge in Emae and Tongoa. This species is usually found in singles, pairs or small groups feeding on figs in the forest canopy. Clements has lumped this bird into the red-headed parrotfinch.
Region
Vanuatu archipelago, Melanesia
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in mid-elevation moist forests on larger islands, especially Espiritu Santo, where it frequents mature evergreen forest and edges. It also visits coastal and low-lying small islands when fig trees are in heavy fruit. Birds typically forage high in the canopy, moving quietly between fruiting trees. Secondary forest and forest-edge groves are used when fruit is abundant, and it may occasionally enter gardens with large fig trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Endemic to Vanuatu, this canopy-loving finch often concentrates around fruiting fig trees and can be surprisingly localized. Some taxonomies have lumped it with the Red-headed Parrotfinch, but many authorities treat it as a distinct species. It is sensitive to forest degradation and fragmentation, which affects fruit availability. Quiet and unobtrusive, it is most often detected by its thin, high-pitched calls.
Temperament
quiet, wary, and canopy-oriented
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick direct dashes between trees
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or in small groups, especially where trees are fruiting. Likely forms monogamous pairs during breeding, building a domed grass nest concealed in dense foliage. Clutches are small, and both parents participate in care. Mixed-species foraging with other frugivores may occur around abundant fruit.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, high-pitched seee and tsee notes interspersed with brief twittering phrases. The song is modest and easily lost in canopy noise, but contact calls are sharp and repeated while feeding.
Plumage
Bright green body with a contrasting vividly colored head and rump, giving a clean, glossy appearance; underparts green with slight yellowish wash. Tail short with red tones, and wings a darker green. Plumage is neat and uniform, with little streaking.
Diet
Primarily feeds on figs and other soft fruits taken high in the canopy. Also consumes small seeds and buds, and may take tiny invertebrates opportunistically. Diet tracks seasonal availability of fruit, leading to local movements within islands. Individuals often spend extended periods at a single fruiting tree.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the upper canopy of mature and secondary forest, especially at forest edges and in fig-rich groves. Will visit village edges or gardens if large fruiting trees are present. Less commonly feeds in understory unless fruit is scarce.
