Rainbow Lorikeet

Previously, this bird was part of the widespread rainbow lorikeet complex, where lorikeets differing slightly in appearance and living across Australia and Indonesia were treated as one species.

Today, rainbow lorikeets are confined to Australia, while those occurring elsewhere are regarded as separate species. Being nomadic, this bird flies up to 60 km to visit flowering trees.

Found from forest edges to urban areas, rainbow lorikeets roost in enormous, noisy flocks. During the breeding season, they form monogamous pairs that nest in the cavities of eucalyptus and palm trees where two eggs are laid.

Incubation duty is by the female alone. Both parents feed the chicks for nearly two months till they fledge. A pair can have up to three broods each season.