The Sisserou parrot (Amazona imperialis, also called the imperial amazon) is found only on Dominica. It is the national bird and appears on the national flag, which was adopted on 3 November 1978.
What it looks like
A large parrot, about 48 cm long, with a dark purple chest and dark green upper parts with black-edged feathers. The eye is a mix of orange and red. Males and females look alike. It calls with a loud, high-pitched mix of shriek, squawk and trill.
Where it lives
The Sisserou lives in mountain forest, mostly between about 600 and 1,300 metres, and it is most often reported on the slopes of Morne Diablotin in the north. A small population has been reintroduced in Morne Trois Pitons National Park. It is shy, usually seen in groups of three or fewer, and well camouflaged.
Why it is at risk
The species is listed as critically endangered, with only about 50 mature individuals estimated in the wild in 2019. Hurricanes, including Hurricane David in 1979 and Hurricane Maria in 2017, damaged its habitat. Forest loss, trapping and competition for nest holes are further threats. It breeds slowly, with a pair typically raising a single chick every other year.
How to be kind to it
Do not feed or chase wild birds, never buy a bird or feathers, and use local guides in forest reserves. Your visit supports the forest it needs.
Another parrot, the Jaco
Dominica's second native parrot is the red-necked amazon, known locally as the Jaco. It is also found only on the island and is easier to meet than the Sisserou.
Sources: Wikipedia, Imperial amazon and Flag of Dominica. The illustration is a public-domain 19th-century plate by David William Mitchell.