The fairy lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. Other common names include the little red lorikeet and the little red lory. Found in New Guinea, its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. Its colouration is mainly red with some yellow on the throat and green on the wings. Two subspecies are recognised, C. p. pulchella and C. p. rothschildi.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs across lowland and montane rainforests of New Guinea, including forest edges and secondary growth where flowering trees are abundant. It frequents the upper canopy but will descend to mid-story when feeding. The species is also seen in gardens and along forest margins near villages when blossoms are in season.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The fairy lorikeet is a tiny red-and-green lory of New Guinea’s forests, equipped with a brush-tipped tongue for feeding on nectar and pollen. It is highly active, zipping between flowering trees and often forming small, noisy flocks. Two subspecies are recognized, C. p. pulchella and C. p. rothschildi, which differ slightly in plumage and range.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small flocks that move quickly between flowering trees. Pairs maintain close contact and may nest in tree cavities lined with wood dust. They are generally non-territorial outside the immediate nest area, often aggregating where blossoms are plentiful.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are high-pitched, thin squeaks and chattering notes delivered in rapid bursts during flight. When feeding, it gives softer twitters and contact calls to keep the flock together.
