Coconut Lorikeet
Distribution
Australia
Diet
Nectarivore
Habitat
Forests and mangroves
Latin Name
Trichoglossus haematodus
IUCN conservation status
This gorgeous, small brightly coloured parrot belongs to a large family of over 370 species!
Interesting informations
A hairy tongue, perfectly adapted for nectar and pollen collection
The lorikeet’s distinctive tongue is covered with small, hairy protrusions called papillae. The bird rubs these against its palate to retrieve absorbed nectar. The lorikeet is also able to grind flowers, fruit and buds. At the zoo, lorikeets can drink a nectar formulation straight from visitors’ hands during operating hours.
A solid beak and agile feet fit for a true acrobat
Lorikeets’ slender wings allow them to skilfully move between trees. When flying in a straight line, they can reach speeds of up to 50 km/h! They have zygodactyl feet, meaning that each foot has two toes in the front and two in the back. These, along with lorikeets’ beak, allows them to climb and move objects with remarkable prowess.
They live in groups but form lifelong couples
Coconut lorikeets are monogamous. Couples are formed within their group, which is made up of a few dozen individuals to a few hundred. Being very active and particularly loud, they are in constant audio contact with the rest of the group. At night, a single roost can number tens of thousands of birds resting together!
Captured for pet trade, its population is monitored
Estimations indicate that the species abounds in nature. Though the exact number of these lorikeets in their natural habitat is unknown, some populations are deemed to be in decline.
