Eastern Rosella

Origins & History

The Eastern Rosella (Platycercus eximius) is a medium-sized parrot native to southeastern Australia and Tasmania. Renowned for its stunning, multi-coloured plumage consisting of red, yellow, blue, and green, this species has been kept as a popular aviary bird worldwide. In New Zealand, Eastern Rosellas hold a unique ecological position. Originally introduced in the early 1910s (likely escaping from a shipment), they have established a self-sustaining wild population, particularly in the Wellington, Wairarapa, and Auckland regions. As captive pets, they are beloved for their beautiful coloration and whistle-like calls.

Wild Population & NZ Wildlife Regulations

The status of Eastern Rosellas in New Zealand requires careful understanding of local wildlife regulations: - **Wild Population Protection:** Under the New Zealand Wildlife Act 1953, wild-born Eastern Rosellas are classified as wild birds and are protected. It is illegal to trap, capture, or take eggs from the wild population without a permit. - **Captive Breeders:** To keep an Eastern Rosella legally as a pet in New Zealand, you must source a captive-bred bird from a licensed NZ breeder. These birds should be closed-ringed (wearing a metal leg band) as proof of their captive origin. - **Social Setup:** Rosellas are active and need plenty of flying space. While they can be hand-tamed with extensive patience from a young age, they are generally better suited to spacious outdoor flight aviaries rather than small indoor cages. For general care guidelines, consult the [SPCA NZ bird care advice](https://www.spca.nz/advice-and-welfare/article/caring-for-birds).

Diet & Nutrition

Eastern Rosellas require a varied diet to support their active lifestyles and vibrant feather condition. - **Base Mix:** A high-quality parrot or parakeet seed mix containing millet, canary seed, and a limited amount of sunflower seeds. - **Fresh Foods:** Daily fresh vegetables (broccoli, carrots, spinach) and fruits (apples, pears). - **Foraging:** Offering fresh native NZ branches (such as Eucalyptus or Manuka) provides both nutritional enrichment and wood to chew, keeping their beaks trim. - **Supplements:** Calcium supplements, cuttlebone, and fresh clean drinking water are mandatory.

For details on similar Australian parakeets available in New Zealand, you can read our [Red-rumped Parakeet guide](/birds/species/red-rumped-parakeet).

Temperament & Noise Level

Eastern Rosellas are active, curious, and independent birds. Unlike cockatiels or budgies, they are less inclined to cuddle and can be headstrong. However, they are highly capable of learning to mimic tunes, whistles, and occasional words. Their calls are loud and whistle-like; while pleasant to many, they can be noisy during early morning and late evening, making them less suitable for close-proximity townhouse or apartment living in NZ cities.