Native Parrots
To Animals
The best known of the 56 species of Native Parrots found in Australia are the galah, rosella, cockatoo and lorrikeet. Easily identified by their bright coloured plumage, they nest in the hollows of trees and are widespread throughout New South Wales.
Parrots use various loud, raucous noises to communicate warnings of danger, locations of food, distress calls and food-begging. They also use movement as part of their messaging system. Some parrots run baby-minding creches while the other birds fly off to find food.
Some species have flourished since land has been used for cropping, offering more food while other birds have suffered from land clearing. But the overall population is being threatened by smugglers who steal the birds, or even their eggs for easier transportation.
All parrots are legally protected throughout NSW by the National Parks and Wildlife Act. More than 10 species have been listed as threatened in NSW.
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