The New Caledonian lorikeet is a possibly extinct lorikeet endemic to the Melanesian island of New Caledonia.
Region
Melanesia
Typical Environment
Historically restricted to New Caledonia, probably centered on forested interiors of Grande Terre. It is thought to have used humid forests and possibly maquis shrublands, foraging at flowering trees. If still extant, it would most likely persist in remote, sparsely surveyed montane and submontane areas. Edge habitats and ridgelines with abundant blossoms may be important. Lack of recent verified records suggests any current range would be highly fragmented and relict.
Altitude Range
unknown
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The New Caledonian lorikeet is known from a handful of 19th-century specimens and has not been reliably recorded since, leading some authorities to consider it possibly extinct. It is (or was) endemic to New Caledonia and likely occupied remote forested areas where detection is difficult. Like other lorikeets, it would be expected to have a brush-tipped tongue adapted for feeding on nectar and pollen. Ongoing searches in rugged interior habitats have yet to confirm its persistence.
Temperament
secretive and elusive
Flight Pattern
fast direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
unknown
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
unknown
