The little lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to Australia. It is a small parrot, predominantly green in plumage with a red face. Its natural habitats are temperate eucalyptus forest and woodland, subtropical or tropical dry forest and subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
Eastern and southeastern Australia
Typical Environment
Found from coastal and inland forests to open woodlands dominated by eucalypts, including riverine red gum corridors. Often visits orchards, roadside trees, and urban parks when nectar sources are abundant. Prefers the canopy of flowering eucalypts, paperbarks, and bottlebrush. Locally nomadic, tracking flowering events across seasons and regions.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The little lorikeet is a tiny, fast-flying nectar specialist that often goes unnoticed as it forages high in flowering eucalypts. It uses a brush‑tipped tongue to lap nectar and pollen and can travel widely following blossoming trees. The bright red face is a key field mark that separates it from similar small green lorikeets. Pairs nest in tree hollows, often in loose colonies when food is abundant.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in small flocks or pairs, becoming more gregarious at rich nectar sources. Breeds in natural tree hollows, often eucalypts, sometimes in loose colonies. Both parents attend the nest, and pairs may shift sites in response to flowering.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High-pitched, thin chattering and rapid twittering, especially in flight. Calls are sharp and squeaky, carrying over the canopy but often hard to pinpoint.
