Observations on Feeding Flocks of the Red-rumped Parrot Psephotus haematonotus in Parklands near Melbourne, Victoria

Abstract

Field observations on feeding flocks of the Red-romped Parrot Psephotus haerruuonotus were conducted during autumn 1984 in suburban parklands in the lower Yarra valley near Melbourne, Victoria. Parrots were found to feed on a variety of introduced plants, but mostly fed on introduced Wireweed Polygonum aviculare Of the various food types eaten, leaf material comprised the major component. Seeds and occasionally flowers were also eaten. On numerous occasions flocks of feeding birds responded to intraspecific warning calls of other bird species, particularly White-plumed Honeyeater Lichenostomus penicillatus. In response to such calls, Red-romped Parrots often took flight and sought cover amongst foliage of nearby trees. The data and observations are discussed in relation to possible factors contributing to the adaptive success of this species in urban environments.

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