The red-chinned lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is native to New Britain, New Ireland, New Hannover and Karkar Island in Papua New Guinea.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs on New Britain, New Ireland, New Hanover (Lavongai), and Karkar Island. It inhabits lowland and hill forests, forest edges, secondary growth, and village gardens with abundant flowering trees. The species readily visits coconut groves and mixed-crop plantations to feed on nectar. It is most frequently encountered in the upper canopy but descends to mid-story when trees are in bloom.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small lorikeet has a brush-tipped tongue specialized for sipping nectar and pollen, making it an important pollinator of island flowering trees. It is often first detected by its rapid, high-pitched chatter as pairs zip between blossoms in the canopy. The species is confined to a few islands of Papua New Guinea, where it adapts readily to forest edges and gardens with flowering trees.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy groups moving between flowering trees. Nests in tree cavities; both parents likely participate in incubation and feeding. Displays strong pair bonds and communal foraging around rich nectar sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of high, thin chattering notes interspersed with sharp squeaks. In flight it gives rapid, repetitive contact calls that carry well over the canopy.
Plumage
Predominantly bright green with a small, distinct red patch on the chin/throat; plumage sleek and glossy with minimal streaking.
Diet
Feeds mainly on nectar and pollen from flowering trees such as coconut and other coastal and lowland species. Also takes soft fruits, including figs and various berries, and occasionally consumes flower buds. Its brush-tipped tongue allows efficient nectar extraction and contributes to pollination.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the upper canopy, along forest edges, and in gardens or plantations with abundant blossoms. Frequently visits flowering coconut palms and other mass-flowering trees near villages.
