The palm lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is found in the Santa Cruz Islands and Vanuatu. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical moist montane forest and plantations. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Melanesia
Typical Environment
The palm lorikeet occurs on the Santa Cruz Islands of the Solomon Islands and across parts of Vanuatu. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland and montane forests, as well as edges, secondary growth, and coconut plantations. The species frequently forages in flowering palms and coastal broadleaf trees near villages. It is generally commonest where mature flowering trees are available and forest cover remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small brush-tongued lorikeet specializes in nectar and pollen, often visiting flowering coconut palms and coastal trees. It is confined to the Santa Cruz Islands (Solomon Islands) and Vanuatu, where it occupies both native forest and plantations. Habitat loss and degradation are its main threats, and local declines have been reported. Pairs and small, noisy groups are most often seen flitting high in the canopy.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or small, chattering groups that move quickly through the canopy. Nests are placed in tree cavities, including in palms where suitable hollows exist. Courtship involves mutual preening and vocal displays among paired birds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are high-pitched, buzzy chatters and sharp squeaks, often delivered in rapid series while foraging. In flight, it gives thin screeches and trills that carry over the canopy.
Plumage
Predominantly green with an olive to dusky head, fine darker scaling on the underparts, and small patches of red on the throat/cheeks; some birds show bluish tinges around the face and breast.
Diet
Nectar and pollen from flowering trees and palms form the bulk of the diet, aided by a brush-tipped tongue. It also consumes soft fruits such as figs and guava, and occasionally takes small insects or larvae while foraging among blossoms. Coconut (Cocos nucifera), Erythrina, and other coastal flowering trees are frequently visited.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy of native forest, forest edge, and village gardens with flowering trees. Coconut plantations and coastal woodland are important when trees are in bloom.
