Wallace's hanging parrot also known as the Flores hanging parrot, is a small parrot endemic to the island of Flores.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Confined to the island of Flores, it inhabits remaining patches of evergreen and semi-evergreen forest, forest edges, and secondary growth with fruiting and flowering trees. It also visits traditional agroforestry areas and orchards where nectar and soft fruits are available. The species uses the mid- to upper-canopy for foraging and commuting between resource trees. It depends on a continuous supply of blossoms and small fruits, making it sensitive to forest degradation. Occasional movements may occur locally in response to food availability.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Named after Alfred Russel Wallace, this tiny hanging parrot is endemic to Flores in Indonesia. Like other hanging parrots, it often roosts upside-down among leaves, which helps it hide from predators. It is typically detected by its thin, high-pitched flight calls as it zips between flowering trees. Habitat loss and trapping have contributed to its decline.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, fast-moving groups that commute between fruiting and flowering trees. Nests are placed in natural tree cavities, with the female incubating and the male often supplying food. Courtship involves soft calling and mutual preening. Roosting upside-down is common when resting or hiding.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are thin, high-pitched whistles and sharp tsee-tsee notes given in quick series during flight. At feeding sites it produces soft chattering and twittering, generally quiet compared to larger parrots.
Plumage
Compact, bright green parrot with short tail and glossy, tight plumage typical of hanging parrots. Males show small red accents on the forecrown/throat and a distinct red rump; females are greener with reduced or absent red on the throat. Underparts are slightly paler green, and the rump contrasts vividly in flight.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar, pollen, and soft fruits such as figs and other small berries. It visits flowering trees frequently and may probe blossoms for nectar. Also consumes tender buds and occasionally sips tree sap. Seasonal food availability influences local movements and flocking.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid- and upper-canopy of forest, edges, and secondary growth. It also frequents gardens and agroforests with flowering and fruiting trees.
