One of only three migratory parrot species in the world, the Orange-bellied Parrot, Neophema chrysogaster, migrates annually from Tasmania to south-eastern Australia every winter. 

However, Orange-bellied Parrots are Critically Endangered and at risk of extinction in the next 3-5 years unless urgent action is taken.

Zoos Victoria plays a key role in the recovery of this species by maintaining a genetically viable captive population at Healesville Sanctuary.  The captive population will provide insurance against the extinction of the Orange-bellied Parrot in the wild.

VIDEO: Healesville Sanctuary Bird Keeper Chris Lekos talks about the Orange-bellied Parrot captive breeding program at Healesville Sanctuary

There are only about 50 Orange-bellied Parrots left in the wild.  A further 160-170 birds are part of a captive breeding program at Healesville Sanctuary, Adelaide Zoo and Taroona (Tasmania).