The blue-crowned lorikeet, also known as the blue-crowned lory, blue-crested lory, Solomon lory or Samoan lory, is a parrot found throughout the Lau Islands (Fiji), Tonga, Samoa, Niue and adjacent islands, including: ʻAlofi, Fotuhaʻa, Fulago, Futuna, Haʻafeva, Niuafoʻou, Moce, Niue, Ofu, Olosega, Samoa, Savaiʻi, Tafahi, Taʻu, Tofua, Tonga, Tungua, ʻUiha, ʻUpolu, Varoa, Vavaʻu, and Voleva. It is a 19 cm green lorikeet with a red throat, blue crown, and belly patch shading from red at the top to purple at the bottom.
Region
Polynesia, South Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs across the Lau Islands of Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Niue, and nearby small islands and islets. It frequents coastal and lowland forest, secondary growth, coconut plantations, village gardens, and edges where flowering trees are abundant. The species adapts well to human-modified landscapes provided nectar sources remain available. It is generally absent from dense montane forest interiors but can range upslope along ridges and clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small lorikeet has a brush-tipped tongue specialized for sipping nectar and pollen from flowers. It is highly active and noisy around flowering trees and plays an important role in pollination across many Polynesian islands. Its vivid blue crown, red throat, and purplish belly patch make it easy to pick out against the green canopy.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with fast, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy parties that move quickly between flowering trees. Breeding pairs nest in tree cavities, including coconut palms, and may defend small territories around nest sites. They often roost communally and forage cooperatively at rich nectar sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched screeches and chattering calls, especially in flight. At feeding sites they emit rapid, buzzy chatter and thin whistles used to keep contact with flock mates.
Plumage
Compact, predominantly green plumage with a bright blue crown, red throat, and a belly patch that grades from red to purple. Feathers are sleek and glossy, giving a clean, vivid appearance in good light.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar and pollen from flowering trees such as coconut palms, Erythrina (coral trees), and hibiscus. Also takes soft fruits and occasionally small insects or larvae for protein. The brush-tipped tongue is adapted to efficiently gather nectar, and birds often become dusted with pollen as they feed, aiding pollination.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy of coastal forest, secondary woodland, and village gardens where blossoms are abundant. Regularly visits plantations and ornamental flowering trees in settlements.
