
The Neophema chrysogaster, also known as the Yellow-faced Parrot or Eastern Rosella, is a species of parrot native to eastern Australia.
This species is characterized by its bright yellow face, blue crown, and green back.
It is a relatively small parrot, measuring approximately 30 centimeters in length.
Its distinctive yellow face is a key identifying feature of the Neophema chrysogaster.
For your interest: Neophema
Taxonomy and Naming
The orange-bellied parrot has a fascinating history when it comes to its taxonomy and naming. The species was first described by ornithologist John Latham in 1790 as Psittacus chrysogaster.
The name was derived from Ancient Greek words: chrysos, meaning "golden", and gaster, meaning "belly". This refers to the bird's distinctive orange-colored belly.
John Gould described the species again in 1841 as Euphema aurantia, using the Latin adjective for "orange" to describe the bird's plumage.
The species has also been known by other names, including the "orange-breasted parrot" and the "orange-bellied grass-parakeet". The International Ornithologists' Union (IOC) has designated "orange-bellied parrot" as the official name.
Here are some of the different names the species has been known by:
- Orange-bellied parrot
- Orange-bellied grass-parakeet
- Orange-breasted parrot
- Yellow-bellied parrot
- Trumped-up corella
The species was placed in the genus Neophema by Italian ornithologist Tommaso Salvadori in 1891.
Conservation Status
The neophema chrysogaster, a bird species found in Australia, is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
It has a relatively stable population trend, with an estimated 2,500 to 9,999 individuals.
The species' population is widespread across its native range, with a large geographic area covered by its habitat.
However, its population is fragmented, with isolated populations found in different regions.
Avian Information
The orange-bellied parrot has a long history of breeding attempts. Fred Lewitska successfully bred them in 1973, after five years of trying.
The species was first described in 1790, and it's found in Tasmania, specifically in South West Tasmania. It's also a bird of Australia, to be exact.
Aviculture has played a crucial role in the species' survival. Aviculturists like Fred Lewitska and Len Robinson have bred orange-bellied parrots in captivity, with notable successes.
Description
The orange-bellied parrot is a small bird, measuring around 20 cm (8 in) long.
Its adult male has bright green feathers on its head, neck, and upperparts, with yellow-green breast, abdomen, and flanks.
The feathers on the cheeks, neck, and underparts are yellow-green with lime green tips and fringes, making them appear more bright green when the bird has just molted.
Its crown feathers are bright green with darker green tips.
A prominent, two-toned blue frontal band runs across the parrot's forehead, with a lighter blue border above and below the horizontal dark blue band.
The underside of the parrot has an oval patch of orange around 2 cm in diameter.
The undertail coverts are yellow to pale yellow.
The uppertail is green-blue with yellow sides.
The under wing-coverts and flight feathers are dark blue, with paler blue median wing-coverts.
The adult female has slightly duller shades of green plumage overall.
Its orange belly patch is about 30% smaller and less distinct than the male's.
Moulting takes place in late winter and early spring.
The juvenile is a duller green to yellow-olive color overall.
It has a much less prominent blue frontal band above the eyes.
The juvenile's bill is dull yellowish or orange, darkening to brown by the time the bird is three months old.
Aviculture
The orange-bellied parrot was first bred successfully in 1973 by South Australian aviculturist Fred Lewitska after five years of trying.
Fred Lewitska's achievement is impressive, especially considering the challenges he faced. He repeated his success in 1974 before being directed to release the birds into the wild by authorities.
In addition to Lewitska's efforts, Victorian birdwatcher Len Robinson also bred orange-bellied parrots in suburban Melbourne between 1998 and 2006. He held four pairs for eight breeding seasons, fledging a total of 47 birds.
It's worth noting that the orange-bellied parrot is prone to obesity, like the related rock parrot, and can be inactive in an aviary.
History and Research
Neophema chrysogaster, a species of parrot, has a rich history and has been the subject of research in various fields.
The Neophema chrysogaster is native to Australia, where it inhabits the eastern and central regions.
Research has shown that this species is a social bird that thrives in flocks.
Disease Outbreaks

Disease outbreaks have been a significant threat to the orange-bellied parrot population. The Federal Government has attempted to speed up action over a fatal disease in Australia's most critically endangered wild bird, the orange-bellied parrot.
In 2019, a disease struck the endangered orange-bellied parrots in a Tasmanian breeding colony. This event highlighted the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this critically endangered species.
(Latham, J 1790)
The Orange-Bellied Parrot was first described by John Latham in 1790. He's the one who gave the species its scientific name, Neophema chrysogaster.
The description of the parrot was a significant milestone in the study of these birds. Latham's work laid the foundation for future research and classification.
The Orange-Bellied Parrot is a small parrot, around 20 cm (8 in) long. Its size is just one of the many characteristics that have been studied by researchers.
The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, meaning males and females have different physical characteristics. This is evident in the bright grass-green upper parts of the male, which are duller green in the female and juvenile.
The parrot's bright orange belly patch is a distinctive feature of the adult male. It's a striking color that helps researchers identify the species.
Scientific Studies

Scientific Studies have played a crucial role in understanding the history of the subject.
Researchers have conducted numerous studies to analyze the data and come up with conclusions.
One notable study found that the subject has a long and complex history, spanning thousands of years.
According to the study, the earliest recorded evidence of the subject dates back to ancient civilizations.
Studies have also shown that the subject has evolved over time, influenced by various cultural and societal factors.
Researchers have used a variety of methods to study the subject, including archaeological excavations and historical documentation analysis.
The data collected from these studies has provided valuable insights into the development of the subject.
One study discovered that the subject has had a significant impact on the development of modern society.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Neophema chrysogaster habitat?
The Neophema chrysogaster inhabits a variety of coastal habitats, including salt marshes, beaches, and moorlands, typically within 10 km of the coast. Its habitat varies seasonally, reflecting its migratory nature.
Do orange-bellied parrots eat button grass?
Yes, orange-bellied parrots primarily feed on the seeds of buttongrass and other heath plants. Their diet consists mainly of seeds from coastal plains.
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