The Vernal Hanging Parrot (Loriculus vernalis) is also known as Indian Hanging Parrot, Indian Lorikeet, Indian Hanging Lorikeet or Green Hanging Parrot – is relatively common in its territory from South-western India eastwards to Southeast Asia. Local movements within its territory have been observed, depending on availability of food. Outside the breeding season, these parrots are usually seen in small groups. Its flight is described as swift.
Diet:
Its natural diet consists of fruit, seeds, buds and blossoms. In captivity, their diet should include plenty of fruits, such as figs, pear, apple, banana, and vegetables.
Description:
This is a small, mainly green hanging parrot that is very well camouflaged by the foliage. It is only 5 inches long with a short tail, and averages 28g in weight. Adults have soft red bills.
Males: The adult has a distinctive red rump and bill, and blue throat patch.
Females: Look similar to the male, except the blue on the throat is less visible or entirely absent.
Young / immature birds: Have duller rumps and lack the throat patch. The forehead and cheeks are dull grey/green. The rump is dull red washed with green. The bill is pale orange and the eyes are brown.
Breeding
Vernal Hanging Parrots nest in tree cavities. There are usually two to three white eggs in a clutch, which are incubated by the female for about 20 days. The young fledge when they are about 33 days old.
