Nesting Rosellas Platycerus spp.: Innovative Site Selection and Notes on Repeat Breeding and Other Behaviour

Abstract

Eastern Rosellas Platycerus eximius and Crimson Rosellas P. elegans on the Mornington Peninsula, Victoria, are prospecting for and using a number of abnormal sites for nesting. It is suggested that this is a result of a decrease in the number of suitable tree hollows and competition from increased numbers of Rainbow Lorikeets Trichoglossus haematodus. Numbers of these species are sustained and bolstered artificially by the provision of feeding stations in gardens. Some associated aspects of behaviour are noted. One Pair of Eastern Rosellas laid again within 15 days of the first brood fledging.