Black Parrot

Coracopsis nigra

Exists only on Praslin Island, Seychelles. All-dark, quietly endangered, and ancient-looking.

Population: Global population size not quantified ("unknown" per IUCN/BirdLife, 2025 assessment); suspected 29-40% decline over the past three generations (22 years), historically considered common but now decreasing; locally as low as 0.16 individuals/hectare in heavily hunted areas (Masoala Peninsula)
Habitat: Dense humid and waterlogged forest including mangroves, plus savanna, dry/spiny forest, and secondary woodland, from sea level to about 2,050 m elevation
Fun fact: During February courtship, female Black Parrots can shed the feathers on their heads to reveal bare yellowish skin, while males' bills may turn whitish — an unusual seasonal breeding transformation among parrots.
Range: Endemic to Madagascar, occurring across the island's forested regions (extent of occurrence 689,000 km², area of occupancy unknown); two subspecies, C. n. libs (west/south Madagascar) and C. n. nigra (east Madagascar)
Diet: Seeds, blossoms/flowers, buds/young leaves, and fruit, especially berries and mangos
Size: 0.38 m
Lifespan: 20 years

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