
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Platycercus icterotis
The smallest rosella at 26 cm, with a red head and yellow cheek patches.
The western rosella (Platycercus icterotis), or moyadong, is endemic to southwestern Australia and is among the smallest rosellas. A red head and yellow cheek patches mark the bird; the sexes differ, with females duller overall, and juveniles lack the striking adult colours so the characteristic patterning is harder to make out. The nominate icterotis and the other subspecies meet in the drier country between Albany and Geraldton, where their ranges form a zone of hybridisation. It uses open and partly cleared eucalypt woodland and forest, riverine forest, farmland, orchards, towns, clearings, roadsides, gardens, cultivated areas, pastures, wooded savanna and shrubland. Its calls are soft and melodious and much quieter than those of other rosellas. In captivity a walk-in flight 3 m long is recommended, and the species is long-lived at 25-40 years. Clutches run to five to eight eggs.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Western Rosella lives 25-40 years.
The Western Rosella grows to 26cm (45-80g).
It is 26 cm long and weighs 45-80 g.
Origin
Southwestern Australia
Lifespan
25-40 years
Size
26cm (45-80g)
Temperature
Sources: World Parrot Trust Parrot Encyclopedia / Wikipedia - Western rosella
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Platycercus icterotis (Temminck & Kuhl, 1820)
Synonyms: Psittacus icterotis
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Platycercus icterotis. The order Psittaciformes is listed in CITES Appendix II except for species placed in Appendix I, so this species is Appendix II and international trade requires an export permit.
Sources: CITES Appendices (Appendix II) / IUCN Red List
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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15〜30℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Mixed seed, seeding grasses, greens, fruit and vegetables, and pellets
A walk-in flight 3 m long is recommended, with a nest log or vertical box about 23 x 23 x 61 cm, water bowls for bathing and room to fly for exercise.
A hearty chewer: keep a steady supply of unsprayed flowering fruit-tree, willow, fir, elder and pine branches. It is normally kept as a pair.
The calls are soft and melodious and much quieter than other rosellas, so the bird causes comparatively little trouble even in flats.
Listed on CITES Appendix II, so import requires an export permit. With a lifespan of 25-40 years, keeping one is a long-term commitment.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Western Rosella is 25-40 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Western Rosella typically reaches 26cm (45-80g) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Western Rosella feeds on: Mixed seed, seeding grasses, greens, fruit and vegetables, and pellets. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Western Rosella varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026