The ornate lorikeet, sometimes named the ornate lory, is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to the Sulawesi archipelago in Indonesia. It is found in forest, woodland, mangrove and plantations, and is locally common.
Region
Sulawesi Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs across Sulawesi and adjacent islands in a variety of wooded habitats. It frequents primary and secondary lowland and hill forests, forest edges, coastal mangroves, and mixed agroforestry and plantations. Birds often move through village gardens and flowering trees where nectar is abundant. They typically forage high in the canopy but will descend to mid-levels where blossoms and fruit are available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This brightly colored lorikeet has a brush-tipped tongue adapted for feeding on nectar and pollen. It is an important pollinator of many native flowering trees in Sulawesi and nearby islands. Although locally common, it can be impacted by habitat loss and trapping, so healthy forests are key to its persistence.
Head and neck
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy flocks that roam widely in search of flowering trees. They are largely monogamous and nest in tree cavities, often high above ground. Communal roosting is common near reliable feeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, high-pitched screeches and chattering notes, often given in rapid sequences while in flight. At feeding sites they add buzzy twitters and excited squeals, creating a constant, lively chorus.
Plumage
Densely colored and patterned, with green upperparts and ornate, multi-colored head and breast. Underparts show yellow to orange areas with green scalloping and bluish tones on the belly. Feathers are sleek and glossy, typical of lorikeets.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar and pollen, using a brush-tipped tongue to sweep blossoms. Also takes soft fruits such as figs and berries and occasionally seeds. Small invertebrates may be consumed opportunistically for protein, especially during breeding. They travel between flowering trees and can be highly mobile within their home range.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mostly in the upper canopy of flowering forest trees, including along edges and in secondary growth. Frequently visits gardens, roadside trees, and plantations when nectar sources are abundant. Will forage in mangroves and coastal woodlands where suitable blossoms occur.
