ID Neophema Parrots

Neophema parrots are a group of small, colourful grass parrots native to Australia. Many of them look similar at a glance, but you can tell them apart using their plumage, wing colour, and distribution. This guide covers all 7 species - Blue-winged, Elegant, Orange-bellied, Rock, Scarlet-chested, Turquoise and Bourke’s Parrots.

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Blue-winged Parrot

All-blue wing, olive-green head and upper body, and yellow patch between its eye and bill. Found in Tasmania and south-eastern Australia, these parrots are around 21cm long.

Bourke’s Parrot

Mostly brown above and pink below, with a white eye ring. Males have small blue markings. Some scientists consider the this parrot (Neopsephotus bourkii) as belonging to the Neophema genus so it’s been added to this guide.

Elegant Parrot

Golden-olive upperparts and a yellow belly, two-toned blue forehead band. and similar wing markings. Males have a yellow facial mask. Found in southwest WA and southern Australia, this parrot is also called the ‘Grass Parrot’ and ‘Yellow Lowry’.

Orange-bellied Parrot

Males are bright green with a vibrant orange belly, and females are duller in colour. This Critically Endangered bird breeds in Tasmania during summer and migrates to Victoria and South Australia in the winter.

Rock Parrot

A stocky, olive-green parrot with a bright blue forehead and face. Found in two patches of southern Australia, it prefers the ground and will sometimes hide under rocks.

Scarlet-chested Parrot

Male is bright green with a scarlet chest, and the female is similar but without the red chest. Both have a blue face. Easily confused with the Turquoise Parrot, the blue patch on the female’s face is larger.

Turquoise Parrot

Bright green with a turquoise crown and blue wing patch. Males have red shoulders, and females are duller with no red shoulder and a paler wing stripe.

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