Greater Vasa Parrot
NameGreater Vasa Parrot
Common NameGreater Vasa Parrot
Scientific NameCoracopsis vasa
FamilyPsittaculidae
Wingspan (cm)75
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)590
Plumage DetailsUniformly dark grey to blackish-brown plumage, often appearing scaly. The head features bare, pinkish-grey skin around the eyes and cere, which can turn yellow or orange during the breeding season. It has a large, powerful, horn-colored beak.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, raucous squawks, whistles, and screeches. They can also produce softer, more melodious calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Madagascar and the Comoro Islands, inhabiting various forested and open woodland areas.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Uniformly dark grey plumage, Long tail, Bare, pinkish-grey facial skin (changes color during breeding), Powerful, horn-colored beak
Description
The Greater Vasa Parrot is a large, dark grey parrot native to Madagascar and the Comoro Islands. It is known for its unique breeding biology, including a bare facial patch that changes color during the breeding season. This species exhibits a distinctive long tail and a powerful beak.
