Masked Shining Parrot: A Radiant Avian GemThe masked shining parrot, scientifically known as Prosopeia personata, is a remarkable bird found in the Fiji Islands, specifically on Viti Levu. It gets its name from the musky scent it emits, earning it the alternative name "musk parrot". With a length of about 47 cm and a weight of 322 g, it is a relatively large parrot. The adult bird features a black face, a yellow - orange streak on the center of its abdomen, purple - blue outer webs of primary feathers, and a green tail with a blue tinge. Its bill is grey - black, and its eyes are orange. Juveniles resemble adults but have less black o

The masked shining parrot, scientifically known as Prosopeia personata, is a remarkable bird found in the Fiji Islands, specifically on Viti Levu3. It gets its name from the musky scent it emits, earning it the alternative name "musk parrot"3. With a length of about 47 cm and a weight of 322 g, it is a relatively large parrot3. The adult bird features a black face, a yellow - orange streak on the center of its abdomen, purple - blue outer webs of primary feathers, and a green tail with a blue tinge3. Its bill is grey - black, and its eyes are orange3. Juveniles resemble adults but have less black on their faces, a horn - colored bill streaked with grey, and brown eyes3.

 

 

Masked shining parrots inhabit mature forests and secondary growth areas, occasionally venturing into village gardens, farmlands, and mangroves. They can be found at elevations up to 1,200 meters3. These parrots usually occur singly, in pairs, or in flocks of up to 40 birds outside the breeding season3. They are known for their swift flight through the forest or above the canopy3. They are noisy birds, and their calls, which include harsh, grating notes in flight and high - pitched alarm calls, serve as one of the alarm signals in the forest that other animals rely on3. They are also timid when approached by humans3. Their diet consists of fruits, seeds, flowers, insects, and occasionally cultivated grain3.

Although not globally threatened, the masked shining parrot is considered a near - threatened species3. It is a "restricted - range" species, and its population is suspected to be declining due to habitat loss caused by deforestation and forest fragmentation3. Less than 50% of the forests on Viti Levu remain, which poses a significant threat to the survival of these beautiful birds7. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the long - term survival of the masked shining parrot and to protect the unique biodiversity of the Fiji Islands.