Rare Parrots VI: Microloro pusio

Pusi Microloro

If any person was asked to describe a parrot, a bird probably think of about 30-40 cm. long, with a strong peak is very easy to repeat words and very docile. But the reality is that the word parrot covers many species, some as incredible as pusio Microloros or Micropsitta pusio, which are characterized by smaller parrots in the world.

Specifically, the harterti pusio Micropsitta holds the honor of being the smaller psittacine, with a size of 8.4 cm. Not surprisingly the entire species is also known as pygmy Loritos.

The Microloros pusio live in the area of Papua New Guinea and nearby islands, but even if you know what areas they inhabit, are very difficult to observe because of its diminutive size and colors, which make them easily blend in among the vegetation.

They feed on lichens and fungi, so the reproduction and maintenance in captivity is virtually impossible. Besides, we know very little about them, just to be found in flocks of about 30 individuals and that nest in termite mounds.

Luckily, ignorance and difficulty to find them served, so far, this species so unique is not in danger of extinction.

Recently, journalists from the BBC managed to record a couple for the first time. You can see a small part of the video below.

Photo: teamsuperforest.org