Characteristics of Lorikeet Parakeets

Lorikeets, along with lories, are a small sub-family in the parrot family native to Australia and the South Pacific. Around 53 different species of lorikeet are known, all of which have striking plumage making them among the most colorful of all parrots. Even though Lorikeets and lories are different birds, some cultures such as Australia call both birds lories.

  1. Physical Characteristics

    • Lorikeets are small to medium-sized birds that grow between six to 15 inches in length, depending on the species. They tend to be slender, lightweight birds ranging from less than one ounce up to 10 ounces at most. The birds' tails tend to be long and pointed while lories have a shorter more rounded tail. Lorikeets tend to be mainly green in color with patches of red and yellow. Lories tend to be mainly red with green, yellow and purple patches.

    Habitat

    • Lorikeets live in forested regions within Australia and the South Pacific islands. They nest high in the trees and are adaptable to both cold and hot weather conditions. Some lorikeet species are found in lowland and mountainous areas as well as in mangrove swamps. Lorikeets can move around well in trees, walking nimbly with their four-toed feet along branches and often hanging upside down from them in order to reach food.

    Feeding

    • Unlike most parrot species which are specialized to eat seeds, grains and nuts, lorikeets prefer a more delicate food. Their beaks are not as powerful as other parrots, but they are not required to be as they only have to crush flowers. The lorikeets' tongues are brush-like and can be opened out in order to mop up the nectar inside of flowers. They can also gather pollen into small clumps to make it easier for the birds to eat.

    Breeding

    • Lorikeets, like most parrots, pair off for life when breeding, mating with the same partner each season. They build nests in tree hollows high above the ground and line them with decayed wood pieces. Breeding seasons vary by region and species, but in warmer areas the birds can breed year-round. The female lays two eggs at a time and is the only one to incubate them. The male roosts with the female and also feeds her as she cares for the eggs. Once the eggs hatch, both parents feed the chicks and after six to seven weeks the young birds can fly and leave the nest.