Crimson Rosella look-alikes
Platycercus elegans
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Crimson Rosella. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Eastern Rosella
Platycercus eximius
Key differences
The Eastern Rosella has a red head and breast, but its lower breast and abdomen are yellow, transitioning to green on the rump. It also has white cheek patches, whereas the Crimson Rosella has blue cheek patches. The back of the Eastern Rosella is black with yellow-green scalloping, contrasting with the Crimson Rosella's black with crimson scalloping.
Green Rosella
Platycercus caledonicus
Key differences
The Green Rosella is predominantly green with a yellow head and red forehead band. It lacks the extensive crimson or blue plumage of the Crimson Rosella. Its range is restricted to Tasmania and Bass Strait islands.
Adelaide Rosella
Platycercus elegans subadelaidae
Key differences
The Adelaide Rosella is a subspecies of the Crimson Rosella, found in the Mount Lofty Ranges of South Australia. Its plumage is a blend of red, orange, and yellow, often appearing mottled. It is an intergrade between the crimson and yellow forms, but still distinguishable from the pure crimson form by its mixed coloration.
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