The crimson rosella is one of Australia’s most colourful parrots, sporting brilliant red plumage, vivid blue cheeks and flashes of blue across its wings. Found throughout south-eastern Australia, including forests, woodlands, parks and gardens, these eye-catching birds forage for seeds, fruits, flowers and insects. They’re often spotted feeding on the ground or clambering through trees, using their strong beaks to crack open seeds. Although crimson rosellas remain relatively common, habitat loss and the removal of mature trees can reduce the nesting hollows they depend on. BirdLife Australia supports the protection of native birds and their habitats through research, monitoring and conservation initiatives. They might look like they’ve dressed for a tropical holiday, but these colourful characters are right at home in Australia’s cooler forests.