The red-flanked lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is found in Mollucas, New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical mangrove forests. Only the adult males have the red plumage on the head and sides.
Region
Moluccas, New Guinea, and the Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs on the Maluku Islands (Moluccas), across New Guinea, and on the Bismarck Archipelago. It inhabits subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests, mangroves, and forest edges, and also visits coconut groves and village gardens. The species favors areas with abundant flowering trees and can be found from coastal zones inland. It is typically common where nectar resources are reliable and may move locally in response to flowering cycles.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small lorikeet uses a brush-tipped tongue to lap nectar and pollen from flowering trees. Males show striking red on the head and flanks, while females lack the red and appear mostly green with subtle bluish tones. They are fast, agile fliers that often join mixed-species feeding flocks. Their preference for flowering trees makes them important pollinators in island forests.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in pairs or small, noisy groups and may join larger flocks at flowering trees. Pairs are likely monogamous and nest in tree cavities lined sparsely. They are alert and agile in the canopy and frequently commute between feeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High-pitched chattering and sharp, metallic screeches, especially in flight. At rest, they produce rapid, twittering contact calls that keep flocks coordinated.
Plumage
Compact, bright green lorikeet with smooth plumage; males have vivid red patches on the head and flanks, females lack red and show cleaner green with slight bluish tints on the face.
Diet
Primarily nectar and pollen from flowering trees such as Eucalyptus, Syzygium, and coconut palms. Also takes soft fruits and berries when available. Occasionally consumes bud tissue and may ingest small amounts of plant matter while foraging. Their brush-tipped tongues are adapted for efficient nectar feeding.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the canopy at flowering trees, along forest edges, and in mangroves. Frequently visits gardens and coconut plantations where blossoms are abundant.
