Princess Parrot

Australia is home to the colorful Princess Parrot (Polytelis alexandrae), a member of the family of parrots. It was given that name in honor of Princess Alexandra of Denmark, who wed Prince Edward VII of Wales in 1863 and went on to become the monarch of the United Kingdom. Other names for the species include spinifex parrot, princess of Wales parakeet, rose-throated parakeet, and queen Alexandra parrot (or parakeet).

A medium-sized parrot, the princess parrot measures 34 to 46 cm in length and weighs between 110 and 120 g. With a pink throat, bluish crest, and vivid green shoulders, the plumage is primarily green. The tail is long and slender, and the rump is blue. In comparison to females, males have larger tail feathers and more vibrant colors. Additionally, the beak of the male is coral-red, while that of the female is duller and has a greyish crown. The iris of the male is orange, whereas that of the female is somewhat browner. Additionally, on each side of the 3rd primary (flight) feather, the male of the species has a longer, projecting extension.