Rüppell's parrot or Rueppell's parrot, is a bird that is endemic to southwestern Africa from central Namibia to southwest Angola. It lives in savanna where there are trees or in dry woodland. It is more common near streams or rivers. The name commemorates the German naturalist and explorer Eduard Rüppell.
Region
Southwestern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from central Namibia north to southwestern Angola, concentrating in arid and semi-arid savannas with scattered trees. It frequents mopane and acacia woodlands, riparian corridors, and dry riverbeds where large trees provide cavities for nesting. Birds may visit agricultural edges and waterholes in the dry season. Availability of surface water and mature cavity-bearing trees strongly influences local presence.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Rüppell's parrot is native to southwestern Africa, mainly Namibia and southwest Angola, where it favors dry woodland and savanna near watercourses. Females typically show a blue wash on the lower back and rump, a key field mark. Juveniles lack the bright yellow shoulder patch seen in adults. It is named after the German naturalist Eduard Rüppell.
In captivity
Old painting, female in foreground
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it gathers in small, noisy flocks or family groups, often commuting between feeding sites and water. Pairs are monogamous and nest in tree cavities, lining them with wood dust or debris. Breeding timing varies with rainfall, and both parents tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, ringing screeches and harsh contact calls given in flight. When perched, it utters softer chattering and whistles, especially during social interactions at dawn and dusk.
