The iris lorikeet is a small, up to 20 cm (8 in) long, green lorikeet bird. The male has a red forehead, yellow nape, purple band back from eye between nape and cheek, and yellowish below. The female almost similar with red-marked green forecrown and yellowish green cheek.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on the islands of Timor (including parts of Timor-Leste and Indonesian West Timor) and Wetar. It favors forest edges, secondary woodland, and areas with abundant flowering trees, including Eucalyptus and Syzygium. The species also visits coconut groves, gardens, and plantations when in bloom. While primarily associated with evergreen and monsoon forests, it tolerates some habitat disturbance as long as nectar sources remain available.
Altitude Range
100–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small lorikeet of Timor and Wetar, the iris lorikeet feeds mainly on nectar and pollen using a brush-tipped tongue. It is often seen in pairs or small, noisy flocks visiting flowering trees. Habitat loss and trapping pressure have impacted some populations. Formerly placed in Psitteuteles, it is now commonly treated in the genus Saudareos.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or small flocks, moving quickly between flowering trees. Nesting is in tree cavities, with both adults attending the nest. They are generally resident and maintain small local movements following flowering events.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are high-pitched, sharp chattering notes and thin screeches given in flight. At feeding sites, they produce softer twitters and chatters while interacting in small groups.
Plumage
Bright green body with a red forehead, yellow nape, and a purplish band extending back from the eye; underparts wash yellowish. Females are similar but with reduced red on the forecrown and greener cheeks. The overall texture is sleek with minimal streaking.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar and pollen from flowering trees and shrubs. Also takes soft fruits such as figs and may ingest some blossoms. Pollen provides key protein, and occasional ingestion of small invertebrates can occur incidentally while feeding.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the canopy and at flowering crowns of trees along forest edges, secondary growth, and gardens. Frequently visits Eucalyptus, Syzygium, and coconut palms when in bloom.
