These charming birds are common in the gardens of south eastern Australia, taking their choice of berries, seeds and occasionally insects. They also feed on the ground and are common on farms that have retained some trees and forest. Their populations in some areas are probably limited by nesting opportunities and young birds in particular can often bee seen inspecting potential nesting sites. They take readily to nestboxes.
Habitat
Open forests and woodlands, farms and suburbs. Generally replaced by Crimson Rosellas in taller and denser forests. Further north they are replaced by pale-headed rosellas and northern rosellas. Similar nestboxes may be useful for those species and records of nestbox use should be reported to the Gould League.
Nesting information
Time: June to February, earlier in north of the range
Position: Tree hollow
Height 2-15 metres
Eggs: 4-6 white eggs
Incubation: 19-21 days
Fledgling: 5-6 weeks
Nest box maintenance
Rosellas are shy birds and the box should be observed from a distance or through a window. These parrots may desert a nest if they feel they are being watched. Normal procedures for removing feral animal nests should be maintained. Food or structures that attract feral birds should be removed from the area.
Credit:
Grant, Jim, 1997, The Nestbox Book, Gould League of Victoria, Melbourne.
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