The leaf lorikeet, also known as the Flores lorikeet or Weber's lorikeet, is a species of parrot that is endemic to the Indonesian island of Flores. It was previously considered a subspecies of the rainbow lorikeet, but following a review in 1997, it is increasingly treated as a separate species.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Endemic to Flores, where it occupies lowland to foothill habitats, forest edges, and secondary woodlands. It frequently visits flowering trees in coastal scrub, agricultural areas, and village gardens, including coconut and other orchards. The species adapts well to mosaic landscapes and will move locally in response to nectar availability. It tends to remain near canopy and upper midstory levels, descending when trees are in bloom.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Also known as the Flores or Weber’s lorikeet, it is confined to the Indonesian island of Flores and was once treated as a subspecies of the rainbow lorikeet. Like other lorikeets, it has a brush-tipped tongue specialized for feeding on nectar and pollen. It often makes local movements to track flowering trees and can be conspicuous around gardens and plantations.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
swift, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy flocks that move quickly between flowering trees. Nests in tree cavities, often high in mature trunks. Pairs form strong bonds and may defend feeding and nesting sites vigorously.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mix of sharp chattering calls, high-pitched screeches, and nasal squeals. Vocal and persistent around rich nectar sources, with contact calls used to keep flocks together in flight.
Plumage
Predominantly leaf-green with fine yellowish scaling, giving a bright, verdant appearance. Often shows a faint bluish wash on the head and cheeks and a reddish-orange flash in the underwing coverts. The plumage is sleek and compact, with minimal contrasting patches compared to rainbow lorikeet forms.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar and pollen from a variety of flowering trees, using its brush-tipped tongue. Also consumes soft fruits, berries, and buds, and may take small quantities of seeds. Opportunistically supplements its diet with lerp, sap, or small invertebrates while foraging.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly in the canopy and upper midstory of flowering trees in forest edges, secondary woodlands, and plantations. Frequently visits village gardens, coconut groves, and roadside trees when in bloom.
