EXTRACT FROM THE FOLLOWING THIRD PARTY SOURCE: Written by: Grrl Scientist for The Guardian
The taxonomy of the Cape parrot, Poicephalus robustus robustus, has long been controversial, particularly amongst conservation biologists and policymakers. But a team of South African scientists published a study that agrees with previously published morphological, ecological, and behavioural assessments indicating that this taxon should be elevated to full species status.
In this study, the authors analysed genetic data from five Poicephalus parrot species and found that the Cape parrot is genetically distinct from all of its closest relatives. This taxonomic revision could facilitate better planning and implementation of international and local conservation management strategies for protecting this critically endangered parrot.
Read more about the Cape parrot
To comment on this story: Download our app here - it's a troll-free safe place 🙂.
HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF AFRICA GEOGRAPHIC:
- Travel with us. Travel in Africa is about knowing when and where to go, and with whom. A few weeks too early / late and a few kilometres off course and you could miss the greatest show on Earth. And wouldn’t that be a pity? Browse our famous packages for experience-based safaris, search for our current special offers and check out our camps & lodges for the best prices.
- Subscribe to our FREE newsletter / download our FREE app to enjoy the following benefits.
