Josephine's lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is found in the highlands of New Guinea . Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs across the central cordillera of New Guinea, in both Papua New Guinea and Indonesian Papua. It frequents subtropical and tropical moist montane forest, mossy forest, and adjacent secondary growth and forest edges. The species may also visit lower montane foothills and occasionally tall lowland forest where flowers are abundant. It forages mainly in the canopy but will descend to flowering shrubs at forest margins. Local, elevation-following movements can occur in response to flowering cycles.
Altitude Range
500–2800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Josephine's lorikeet is a small, fast-moving parrot specialized for nectar feeding with a brush-tipped tongue. It inhabits the highlands of New Guinea and often travels in small, noisy groups between flowering trees. Pairs are strongly bonded and nest in tree cavities. Its reliance on seasonal blossoms can lead to local movements following blooms.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small, chattering groups moving quickly between flowering trees. Nests in natural tree cavities, with pairs defending the immediate nest area. Often associates loosely with other nectar-feeding birds when blossoms are abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are high-pitched, sharp chits and screeches delivered in rapid bursts during flight. When feeding, it gives softer, buzzy chatter and thin contact notes.
Plumage
Slender, predominantly green lorikeet with bright, glossy plumage and a long, tapered tail. Typically shows contrasting red markings on the throat or face and some red on the undertail. Flight feathers are darker with a slight bluish or blackish cast.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar and pollen, using its brush-tipped tongue to extract food from blossoms. Also takes soft fruits and occasionally seeds to supplement energy needs. Small invertebrates may be consumed opportunistically, especially when feeding among flowers. It often follows flowering events and concentrates where blooms are dense.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mainly in the upper canopy of montane forest, along forest edges, and in flowering secondary growth. Will visit gardens or edges where ornamental or native trees are in bloom.
