More than 165 orange-bellied parrots begin the 2026 migration
Published · Researched 2026-09-22
What happened (dated facts)
On 11 June 2026, the Tasmanian government reported that more than 165 orange-bellied parrots began their annual migration from the breeding grounds at Melaleuca — a record for the programme. The 2025/26 breeding season produced 46 fledglings, including 16 naturally occurring nests; 51 captive-bred juveniles were released to bolster the wild flock.
Why it is genuinely positive
For a bird that fell to perhaps a dozen wild survivors a decade ago, 165 departing on migration — with wild-bred fledglings among them — is a remarkable rebound.
Social pulse
Tasmanian conservation and birding communities celebrated the record departure; government channels amplified the announcement.
Verified quotes
None captured.
Verification
- Tier: 2
- Primary source: Tasmanian Government announcement, 2026-06-11, https://www.premier.tas.gov.au/latest-news/2026/june/orange-bellied-parrot-flock-begins-annual-migration — 165+ departing; 46 fledglings; 51 captive-bred released.
- Social sources: Tasmanian birding/conservation community sharing.
- Positivity check: Unambiguous milestone. Passed.
Key facts
| Fact | Value | Source | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Migrating flock | 165+ (record) | Tasmanian Government | 2026-06-11 |
| Fledglings (2025/26 season) | 46 (16 natural nests) | Tasmanian Government | 2026 |
| Captive-bred released | 51 juveniles | Tasmanian Government | 2026 |
| Breeding site | Melaleuca, Tasmania | Tasmanian Government | 2026 |
UNVERIFIED points
- Return rate from the 2026 migration: not yet known. UNVERIFIED.
Sources
- Primary source: Tasmanian Government announcement, 2026-06-11 — retrieval date not recorded