Great Billed Parrot

The Great-billed Parrot (Tanygnathus megalorynchos), also known as the Moluccan Parrot or Island Parrot, is a medium-sized bird primarily recognized for its exceptionally large, bright red beak.

Physical Description

• Size and Weight: Adults typically measure between 38 and 43 cm (15–17 inches) in length. They are robustly built, weighing approximately 250 to 400 grams.

• Plumage: Their feathers are predominantly bright green.Back and Rump: Often exhibit a pale blue or turquoise coloration.
  Wings: Feature blackish shoulders (scapulars) and yellow markings on the wing coverts, which create a distinctive yellow stripe visible during flight.
  Underparts: Generally yellowish-green with yellow flanks.
  

• Head: Features a massive red bill and cream-colored irises. Unlike some related species, they lack blue on the head, though some subspecies may have a bluish tinge.

• Sexual Dimorphism: Males and females are very similar in appearance, though females are often slightly smaller.

Behavior and Personality

• Temperament: They are known as "gentle giants"—intelligent, inquisitive, and generally more calm and laid-back compared to other large parrots like Macaws.

• Social Nature: In the wild, they are highly social, often traveling between islands in small groups to forage. In captivity, they are loyal companions that enjoy being near their owners, though they may be less "cuddly" than some other species.

• Vocalization: While they have loud, harsh natural calls (such as "kee-aw" or "krah"), they are generally considered quiet birds. They are capable mimics and can learn to talk in a mumbled, comical voice.

Great-billed Parrot  — Wild Population Facts

The Great-billed Parrot, is a striking medium-sized parrot native to the forests, woodlands, and mangroves of Southeast Asian island regions such as the Maluku Islands, Raja Ampat, Talaud, the Lesser Sundas, and nearby isles.

To see a Great Billed Parrot inside the USA is a rare thing. Since the population inside the USA is so low we are trying to keep this sensitive birds numbers up as they are quickly disappearing and it is nearly impossible to import them.

While the Great-billed Parrot is not considered critically endangered it faces threats from:

• Deforestation and habitat loss

• Illegal trapping for the pet trade

• Fragmentation of rainforest ecosystems

Our Conservation Breeding Program At Feather Headz Aviary

We are proud to be part of responsible conservation breeding efforts for the Great-billed Parrot. Our program is focused on:

• Maintaining healthy genetic diversity

• Supporting long-term species sustainability

• Educating the public about parrot ecology and conservation

By actively participating in captive breeding under proper permits and industry standards, we help ensure these magnificent parrots continue to thrive — both in human-care programs and in the wild.