A Glimpse of Hope: The Story of Norfolk’s Green Parrot

Every paradise has its symbol, and for Norfolk Island, that symbol is the Norfolk Island Green Parrot. This small, vibrant bird – a flash of brilliant colour against the island’s lush greenery – has a dramatic story, one that brought it perilously close to the brink of extinction. The Norfolk Island Green Parrot now stands as a testament to the island’s ongoing, deeply passionate conservation efforts.

This parrot’s nom de guerres include Tasman parakeet, and the Norfolk Island red-crowned parakeet.

A Close Call with Extinction

Not that long ago, this vibrant parrot’s future was hanging by a thread. Once numbering in the thousands, its population had plummeted to fewer than 50 birds by the late 1970s. A perfect storm of factors, including habitat loss from early settlements and the introduction of predators like feral cats and rats, had pushed this unique species to the very edge of existence. For a bird found nowhere else in the world, this was an existential crisis.

A Rescue Mission For the Parrot

In the face of this life-or-death situation, the island community and dedicated conservationists came together for a remarkable and ongoing rescue mission. The effort was a true collaborative masterpiece, involving assisted breeding programmes, predator eradication projects, and meticulous habitat restoration work. The Norfolk Island National Park became a critical sanctuary, a safe haven where the recovering population could be protected and closely monitored. This wasn’t a quick fix; it was a long, patient, and unwavering commitment that continues to this day, with the local community playing a vital role in protecting their feathered icon.

A Glimpse of Hope and Ongoing Efforts

Today, the Norfolk Island Green Parrot’s story is one of cautious optimism. While the population has made a remarkable comeback from those desperate numbers, it remains a vulnerable and closely-monitored species. For travellers, seeing this red-crested parrot in the wild is a special treat, a moment of pure magic that rewards the patient and observant. However, hearing its distinctive, chattering ‘kek-kek-kek’ call echoing through the trees is a much more common experience for those exploring the island’s many parks and forests. The sound itself is a beautiful reminder that this conservation story is still being written. The parrot stands as a powerful symbol of the island’s deep-seated commitment to preserving its unique endemic species, a true work of hope for a better, safer future.

Norfolk Island Green Parrot: One Amongst Many in a Birdwatchers’ Paradise

A holiday on Norfolk Island is more than just a beautiful escape. It’s an opportunity to see how a community’s commitment and love for its unique home can bring a species back from the brink. Ready to explore a paradise that’s a true sanctuary for both you and its precious wildlife? Check out our range of Norfolk Island holiday deals and resorts, or talk to our South Pacific Specialists at 1300 991 751!