The yellow-breasted racket-tail is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to Indonesia where it is found in Sulawesi's northern peninsula and the Togian Islands in the Gulf of Tomini. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Sulawesi (Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests on Sulawesi’s northern peninsula and the Togian Islands. It favors primary forest but also uses well-developed secondary growth, forest edges, and occasionally tall agroforestry with large fruiting trees. Birds are most often seen in the canopy or along forest margins where fruiting trees are abundant. It may visit coastal and riverine forest mosaics if suitable cover remains. Human disturbance and forest fragmentation can limit its local occurrence.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Yellow-breasted Racket-tail is a Sulawesi-endemic parrot noted for the elongated central tail feathers that end in racket-shaped tips, especially prominent in males. It spends most of its time in the upper forest canopy where it forages quietly in small groups. Habitat loss and trapping can affect local populations, so it is best observed in protected lowland forests. Its bright yellow underparts help distinguish it from other green parrots in the region.
In North Sulawesi
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flights between canopy trees
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or small groups, sometimes joining mixed-species feeding flocks at fruiting trees. Nests in natural tree cavities, with pairs defending the immediate nest area. Courtship involves mutual preening and synchronized movements among canopy perches. Outside breeding, it remains loosely gregarious.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, ringing whistles and chattering notes, often delivered in flight. Contact calls carry well over the canopy, while perched birds give softer, conversational chirps.
