Meek's lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is found on Bougainville Island in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Solomon Islands archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs on Bougainville (Papua New Guinea) and several islands of the Solomon Islands, inhabiting moist lowland and montane forests. It uses both primary rainforest and well-wooded secondary growth, and may visit gardens and village edges when flowering trees are present. Birds often forage in the upper canopy but will descend to mid-levels where blossoms are abundant. It is most numerous where continuous tracts of flowering trees persist. Local movements likely follow the timing of blooms.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Meek's lorikeet is a small, fast-flying nectar specialist with a brush-tipped tongue adapted for feeding on blossoms. It is confined to Bougainville (Papua New Guinea) and the Solomon Islands, where it frequents flowering trees in both primary and secondary forests. The species is often detected by its sharp, high-pitched chatter as small parties zip overhead. Ongoing forest loss and degradation are the primary threats across its limited range.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, fast-moving groups that keep to the canopy. Nests are presumed in tree cavities like many lorikeets, with pairs defending a small area around the nest. Outside breeding, birds often join loose feeding aggregations at flowering trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin chattering calls interspersed with sharp squeaks, often given in flight. At feeding sites, birds produce rapid, scolding notes and continuous chatter.
