Because of its cryptic nature and very low numbers, the Western Ground Parrot has been much less studied than other parrot species.

It wasn't until 2004 that a photo was taken of a bird in the wild; the first video clips were taken in the same year.

The first research project into Western Ground Parrot behaviour took place in 1988 when 13 birds were fitted with radio-tracking devices. Ongoing difficulties with the transmitters created major problems, but valuable data about the parrots' home range which extends over several hectares could be gathered nevertheless.

In 2008 another attempt was made to radio-track a ground parrot. It was hoped the bird would eventually lead the researchers to a nest, but sadly a raptor predated the parrot before a nest could be found.

Research scientist Dr Abby Berryman with captured bird

Perhaps the most significant research results came from a recent study of the Western Ground Parrot's DNA. It concludes that the species is more different from its Eastern states counterpart than previously thought. A recently published paper suggests that the Western Ground Parrot be recognised as a separate species.