Feeding Ecology of Hooded Parrots Psephotus dissimilis During the Early Wet Season

Abstract

The feeding ecology and related behaviour of Hooded Parrots Psephotus dissimilis were studied during the early wet season at several sites north-east of Katherine, Northern Territory. All foods taken by the parrots were recorded with measures of their abundance and their relative dietary importance. The diet comprised primarily the seeds of perennial grasses; when these were unavailable, seeds of herbaceous species and annual grasses were taken, some of which could be eaten only slowly. Each food type required a different feeding technique. Variation in the skill of individual parrots in mastering feeding techniques may explain the apparent disappearance of immature parrots at this time of year. Hooded Parrots nearly always fed in association with the Black-faced Woodswallow Artamus cinereus and this may have implications for predator avoidance.