The red-collared lorikeet is a species of parrot found in wooded habitats in northern Australia. It was previously considered a subspecies of the rainbow lorikeet, but today most major authorities consider them as separate species. No other member of the rainbow lorikeet group has an orange-red collar over the nape.
Region
Northern Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Kimberley region of Western Australia across the Top End to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Common in open eucalypt woodlands, paperbark (Melaleuca) swamps, monsoon forests, and along urban parklands where flowering trees are abundant. Frequently visits coastal areas and mangroves when blossoms are available and will readily exploit suburban gardens. Largely resident but makes local nomadic movements following peak flowering events.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This vibrant lorikeet is endemic to northern Australia and was long treated as a subspecies of the rainbow lorikeet before being recognized as a distinct species. Its brush-tipped tongue is specialized for lapping nectar and pollen from blossoms. The bold orange-red collar across the nape is the key field mark that separates it from other rainbow lorikeet group members.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with fast, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often found in noisy pairs or flocks that gather at flowering trees and communal evening roosts. Monogamous pairs nest in natural tree hollows, typically high in eucalypts. Breeding timing varies with rainfall and flowering, commonly during the dry season when nectar is plentiful.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are loud, sharp screeches and chattering notes given in rapid sequences during flight. At roosts and feeding sites, produces high-pitched twitters and metallic scolds, often overlapping within the flock.
