Lesser Vasa Parrot
Description
The lesser vasa parrot or black parrot (Coracopsis nigra) is a black coloured parrot native to Comoros, Madagascar, Mayotte, and Seychelles. It is one of two species of vasa parrots, the other being the greater vasa parrot C. vasa; although, the subspecies C. n. barklyi, of the Seychelles, is sometimes split as a third species, the Seychelles black parrot.
Lesser vasa parrots inhabit the mangrove swamps and evergreen forests of Madagascar and the Seychelles Islands. They eat seeds, blossoms and fruit - especially berries and mangos.
They build their nests in tree hollows and go through courtship in February. During this time, the female may shed the feathers on her head giving it a yellowish tone. The male's beak may also turn white during this time.
Scientific Name
Coracopsis Nigra
Country Of Origin
Size
Life Expectancy
Noise Level
Talk / Trick Ability
Excellent
Characteristics
Vasa parrots are not common in aviculture and is not commonly kept as pet birds. Companion pet vasa parrots are extremely intelligent and very playful, and they become very devoted to their pet bird owners. An interesting fact about vasa parrots is that it has an incubation period of only 18 days, the shortest among psittacines.
Behavior / Health Concerns
Vasas are extremely active birds and they are avid eaters —they need a great deal of food and will eat every bit of it. Vasa parrots love to take baths. Pet bird toys are a must for vasa parrots, in order to keep them happy and healthy. Vasa parrots do best in an aviary where they can fly, stretch and play enough to accommodate their active nature and large size.
Expert Advice
“While most people think of parrots as brightly colored birds, the vasa [parrots] are gray and rather dull in appearance, up until breeding season. When they breed, the flesh on their heads turns bright yellow.”
Jennifer Evans, Lead Aviculturist/Intern Coordinator, Tracy Aviary