Red-breasted Parakeet feasting on Sonneratia caseolaris fruits

The Red-breasted Parakeet (Psittacula alexandri) is an introduced species to Singapore. From the image above, one can understand why it is also known as Moustached Parakeet.

According to Collar (1997) and Wells (1999), its feeding habit is not well known.

The photographs taken at Pasir Ris Park in February 2016 shows that the fruits of Sonneratia caseolaris are one of its favourite food. Often called Mangrove Apple or Beremban in Malay, this is an endangered mangrove species of Singapore. There are only a few naturally occurring trees left and Pasir Ris is one such location

Thanks to Melinda Chan who recognised the fruit as that of Sonneratia.

Abhijit Vaidya
Singapore
8th June 2016

References:
1. Collar, N. J. 1997. Family Columbidae Psittacidae (parrots). In: del Hoyo, J., A. Elliott & J. Sargatal (eds.), Handbook of the birds of the world. Vol. 4. Sandgrouse to Cuckoos. Lynx Editions, Barcelona. Pp. 280-477.
2. Wells, D.R., 1999. The birds of the Thai-Malay Peninsular. Vol. I, Non-passerines. Academic Press, London. 648 pp.

This post is a cooperative effort between Birds, Insects N Creatures Of Asia and BESG to bring the study of birds and their behavior through photography and videography to a wider audience.