Seychelles black parrot facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Seychelles black parrot |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Coracopsis
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| Species: |
barklyi
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The Seychelles black parrot, also known as the Praslin parrot or kato nwar, is a special type of parrot. Its scientific name is Coracopsis barklyi. This medium-sized, dark-colored parrot lives only in the Seychelles islands. It is the national bird of the Seychelles, which means it's a very important symbol for the country.
Scientists used to think this parrot was a type of lesser vasa parrot. However, the Seychelles black parrot looks, acts, and lives differently. New studies show it has been separate for a very long time. This makes it a unique parrot species.
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What Does the Seychelles Black Parrot Look Like?
The Seychelles black parrot is mostly dark grey-brown. Its feathers under its tail are a lighter grey. The parrot's beak is dark, but it gets lighter when it's time to breed. This bird is about 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) long. It is a bit smaller and lighter in color than the lesser vasa parrot, which is about 35 centimeters long.
Where Do These Parrots Live?
You can find the Seychelles black parrot only on Praslin Island. Their main home for breeding is in the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. This area has old palm forests that the parrots need. They also live in the lower part of Fond Peper in Praslin National Park.
Since 1988, some parrots have also been seen on nearby Curieuse. They have been seen eating there, but there is no proof that they breed on Curieuse. These parrots like to live in woodlands, scrublands, and even gardens.
How Do Seychelles Black Parrots Live?
What Do Seychelles Black Parrots Eat?
These parrots mostly eat fruits. They eat both wild fruits and fruits from farms. They also enjoy eating flowers and buds. Some of their favorite wild foods include fruits from the Vershaffeltia splendida palm tree. These trees grow along river valleys. They also eat the flowers of the famous coco de mer palm.
For cultivated fruits, they like guava, papaya, mango, and bilimbi.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
Seychelles black parrots build their nests in deep holes inside old tree trunks. They choose trees that have good cover to keep their nests safe. Female parrots usually lay 1 to 3 eggs in these nests.
Protecting the Seychelles Black Parrot
There are about 520 to 900 Seychelles black parrots left. These birds are protected by law. However, they still face some dangers. People sometimes harm them illegally outside of protected areas.
Another problem is that they have to compete for nesting spots. Common myna birds also like to nest in tree hollows, which means fewer homes for the parrots. Also, introduced rats can be a threat to the parrots. Efforts are being made to protect these special birds and their homes.
