Orange-bellied Parrots on a journey back from the brink

A decade ago, the total population of the Critically Endangered Orange-bellied Parrot had fallen to just 17 birds, including only three females. The species was teetering perilously on the brink of becoming extinct in the wild.  

From 17 Orange-bellied Parrots to a growing population

Something had to be done quickly. A captive-breeding program that was already underway was ramped up and diversified, and numerous captive-bred parrots were released into the wild on both sides of Bass Strait, to mingle with remaining wild birds, bolstering the population.

That strategy, with repeated releases over the years, has seen the population of Orange-bellied Parrots which breed at Melaleuca, in Tasmania’s wild South West (their only breeding site in the world) increase gradually, slowly edging towards a hundred.

Latest census: 86 birds return to Melaleuca

Late last year, the official annual census of Orange-bellied Parrots which returned to Melaleuca, having migrated across Bass Strait from sites on mainland Australia, recorded 86 returning birds, comprising 35 females and 51 males. Of these birds, twenty had been bred in captivity and released as juveniles at Melaleuca, while the other 66 were hatched at Melaleuca, including 32 birds which had hatched in the 2024–25 breeding season.

Although the tally is down slightly on the number returning the previous year (when 91 birds returned), the discrepancy is thought not to be significant. A census of breeding activity in the nest boxes at Melaleuca is now underway to measure the success or otherwise of this breeding season.

Ryan Kilgower, BirdLife Australia’s Orange-bellied Parrot Coordinator, is optimistic 2026 could be an important year for the species.

“While the returning population has declined, the number falls well within the estimated range and is largely a product of last year’s breeding season and captive release program,” he said. “Fewer birds were migrating to the mainland in 2025 vs 2024; therefore these numbers are a par result.”

Expanding habitat protection, partnerships and targeting surveys

Ryan says a range of activities are being planned for the upcoming winter season.

“Firstly, we’re looking to expand our connections with Traditional Owner groups and environmental organisations – particularly in regions where good OBP habitat is rarely visited. By building these networks, we can all work towards restoring and protecting precious habitats.

“We’re also planning focussed surveys to hopefully detect more individuals on the mainland. We often find around 20% of the OBPs that visit us on the mainland. Increasing that number will enable us to better understand the underlying issues behind their decline and protect the areas they actively inhabit.”

“Ideally, we can one day have a sustainable population that no longer requires human intervention to save it. To get to that goal, we all have to care.”  – Ryan Kilgower, BirdLife Australia’s Orange-bellied Parrot Coordinator

Conservation powered by community

Ryan is passionate about these elusive, long-distance flyers, but it’s the community working to save them that he finds inspiring.

“People often ask me why OBP’s are so special and expect to hear an ‘oh it’s colourful, rare and means so much to me’ and that’s true. But for me, it’s the way these birds bring everyone together that makes them special.”

“Our long running volunteer counts attract a diversity of people from different working backgrounds and heritages. Everyone enjoys observing this incredible species. People from different age groups, cultures, employment backgrounds, genders, personal income levels and religions all gather to observe this bird in the wild. It truly represents Australia and reminds us that birdwatching is for everyone.”

With the backing of a passionate community of partners, volunteers and supporters, Ryan’s long-term vision is clear.

“Ideally, we can one day have a sustainable population that no longer requires human intervention to save it. To get to that goal, we all have to care. Everyone can do their part by advocating for strong nature laws, getting involved as a volunteer or donating when they can to support the OBP. It’s going to take a while, but I’m optimistic for the future.”