Royal Kings and natural mutations occurring in the wild

By Allen Friis

The Australian King Parrot, (Alisterus scapularis), is to my mind well-suited to its name.  When seen up close in the wild these parrots take your breath away.  The plumage of the adult male is spectacular with the scarlet of the head and breast, combining with the vivid green wings and back.  Whenever I come across these broad tail parrots in the wild, it is a thrill.  Their beauty is stunning and the king parrot will always be a favourite of mine.

There are two recognised sub-species of king parrots here in Australia.  The nominate species is seen right down the east coast, while the smaller, darker species inhabits the rainforest in northern Queensland.  I have kept both species, and seen together the difference is noticeable, however when seen on their own it is difficult at first to correctly pick the smaller parrot.

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