The rainbow lorikeet is a species of parrot found in Australia. It is common along the eastern seaboard, from northern Queensland to South Australia. Its habitat is rainforest, coastal bush and woodland areas. Six taxa traditionally listed as subspecies of the rainbow lorikeet are now treated as separate species.
Region
Australasia
Typical Environment
Occurs along eastern and parts of northern Australia, favoring rainforests, eucalypt woodlands, coastal scrub, and urban parks and gardens. Frequently follows seasonal flowering of eucalypts, banksias, and grevilleas. Readily adapts to suburban areas with nectar-rich plantings and sometimes visits orchards. Introduced populations exist in parts of Western Australia and New Zealand.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Rainbow lorikeets are nectar specialists with brush-tipped tongues that sweep pollen and nectar from flowers. They form noisy, fast-moving flocks and are common in cities where flowering trees are planted. They can become bold around people, especially at backyard feeders, but an all-fruit diet is harmful—they require nectar-appropriate nutrition. Several former subspecies in the broader rainbow lorikeet complex are now treated as separate species.
In Brisbane, Queensland.
Eating watermelon with a scaly-breasted lorikeet
Rainbow lorikeets mating at Peel Zoo, Western Australia
In a termite nest
A 12-week-old female rainbow lorikeet in a back yard in Sydney
Introduced to Western Australia
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats and direct, swift flight
Social Behavior
Typically found in noisy pairs or small to large flocks, often gathering at communal roosts. Strong, long-term pair bonds are common. Nests in tree hollows, often high in eucalypts, with both parents involved in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, piercing screeches and chattering calls, often given in flight. At roosts and feeding sites, they produce a constant mix of metallic squawks and excited chatter.
