The striated lorikeet, lori strié, or lori estriado is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae native to New Guinea. It is the only species placed in the genus Synorhacma. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
The striated lorikeet inhabits lowland and foothill rainforests, forest edges, and secondary growth across parts of northern and central New Guinea. It frequents the upper canopy where flowering trees are abundant. Birds may also visit gardens and riverine forest corridors when blossoms are available. Local movements track seasonal flowering, making them sporadically common where resources peak.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This small lorikeet is the sole member of the genus Synorhacma and is confined to the island of New Guinea. It has a brush-tipped tongue specialized for feeding on nectar and pollen, and often travels in small, noisy flocks following flowering trees. Habitat loss and degradation in lowland and hill forests are the main threats.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small, chattering flocks, sometimes joining mixed-species feeding groups at flowering trees. Nests are presumed in tree cavities like many lorikeets, with breeding timed to local flowering peaks. They exhibit local nomadism, shifting ranges as nectar sources change.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high-pitched, sharp chattering and screeches typical of lorikeets. In flocks they produce constant contact calls, with softer twittering while feeding.
Plumage
Fine, pale yellow to whitish streaking over a predominantly green body, giving a distinctly striated appearance on the head, breast, and underparts.
Diet
Primarily nectar and pollen taken from flowering trees and shrubs, using a brush-tipped tongue. Common nectar sources include eucalypts, Melaleuca, Syzygium, and other Myrtaceae. They may supplement with soft fruits and occasionally ingest small quantities of plant matter.
Preferred Environment
Feeds mostly in the forest canopy and along edges where blossoms are plentiful. Will also exploit flowering trees in secondary growth and village gardens.
