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Striated lorikeet

Striated lorikeet

Wikipedia

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.

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Distribution

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

Characteristics

Size17–19 cm
Wing Span22–26 cm
Male Weight0.04 kg
Female Weight0.037 kg
Life Expectancy12 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

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.

Behaviour

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.

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