Scaly-breasted Parrot (Psittinus cyanurus)

The Scaly-breasted Parrot (Psittinus cyanurus) is a rare and distinctive parrot species found primarily in Southeast Asia, including lowland forests and mangrove ecosystems. Named after its scaly feather pattern on the chest, this species is known for its striking sexual dimorphism, with males and females exhibiting different plumage colors. Though its presence in Sundarban is uncertain, it is known to frequent tropical rainforests and wetland areas, making occasional appearances in nearby coastal forests.

Taxonomy and Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Aves
• Order: Psittaciformes
• Family: Psittaculidae
• Genus: Psittinus
• Species: Psittinus cyanurus

Unlike many other parrot species in the Indian subcontinent, the Scaly-breasted Parrot belongs to a smaller and more localized genus, Psittinus.

Morphology and Physical Characteristics

• Size: Medium-sized parrot, measuring 24 cm (9.5 in) in length.
• Weight: Approximately 110–140 grams.
• Plumage:
  • Males and females display striking sexual dimorphism.
  • Male:
    • Green body with a blue tail.
    • Dark blue to blackish head, contrasting with the scaly chest.
    • Yellowish-green underparts.
  • Female:
    • Brownish head with green body.
    • More muted chest scaling compared to the male.
• Juveniles:
  • Similar to females but with duller colors and less distinct scaly patterns.

Habitat and Distribution

The Scaly-breasted Parrot is native to tropical and mangrove forests in:

• Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, Borneo, and Sumatra.
• Prefers lowland rainforests, riverine forests, and secondary woodlands.

Presence in Sundarban

The Scaly-breasted Parrot is not commonly recorded in the Sundarban, but its mangrove habitat preference suggests that occasional sightings could occur:

• More likely to be found in coastal areas and semi-evergreen forests along the Bay of Bengal.
• Given the ecological similarities between the Sundarban and Southeast Asian mangrove regions, migratory or vagrant individuals may be spotted sporadically.

Diet and Feeding Behavior

The Scaly-breasted Parrot primarily feeds on:

• Fruits (figs, guavas, mangoes, and berries).
• Seeds and nuts, including cashews and palm seeds.
• Flowers, nectar, and buds, playing a role in pollination.
• Occasionally consumes small insects or larvae for protein.

It forages in small flocks, often high in the canopy, making it difficult to observe.

Special Features and Behavior

• Distinctive Scaled Chest Feathers: One of the few parrots with scale-like feather patterns.
• Sexual Dimorphism: Males and females have clearly different coloration.
• Shy and Elusive: Unlike other noisy parrot species, it is relatively quiet, making it hard to detect.
• Breeding Season: Typically from February to July, nesting in tree cavities.
• Strong Fliers: Capable of traveling long distances in search of food.

Conservation Status

• Classified as Near Threatened (NT) by the IUCN Red List due to:
  • Deforestation and habitat destruction in Southeast Asia.
  • Illegal pet trade, reducing wild populations.
• Protection initiatives, including Sundarban conservation projects, help maintain suitable mangrove and wetland habitats.

The Scaly-breasted Parrot is a rare and beautiful species, distinguished by its unique chest patterns and subtle coloration differences between males and females. Though its presence in the Sundarban is not well-documented, the mangrove-rich regions of Southeast Asia and Bengal suggest potential sightings in coastal forest patches. For birdwatching enthusiasts, a Sundarban private tour can be an excellent opportunity to explore the region’s diverse parrot species and other rich avifauna.

Footnote

For more details on the Scaly-breasted Parrot, visit its Wikipedia page.