Observations of Cape Parrot, Poicephalus robustus, nesting in the wild

Abstract

Most Cape Parrot, Poicephalus robustus, nests have been recorded in snags (standing dead trees) making monitoring of nest contents and nest activities difficult and dangerous. Here the breeding activity of a Cape Parrot pair in the cavity of a live Henkell\'s Yellowwood (Podocarpus henkellii) is presented. Four eggs were laid in early-August and three chicks successfully raised. Incubation period was estimated at 30–32 days. Two nestlings fledged successfully and one (the youngest) was removed because it was injured in the nest and would not have survived. Fledging period was estimated at 80 days.

Ostrich 2004, 75(3): 106–109