The ultramarine lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae, endemic to the Marquesas Islands. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical moist montane forest and plantations. It is critically endangered, threatened mainly by introduction of the black rat and by deforestation.
Region
Polynesia, South Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs on a few islands in the Marquesas, with strongest populations on rat-free or well-controlled islands. Uses subtropical and tropical moist lowland and montane forests, as well as coconut groves, gardens, and plantations. Frequently visits flowering trees in village areas and forest edges for nectar. Requires mature trees with cavities for nesting, making intact forest patches important refuges.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1100 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking blue-and-white lorikeet is restricted to the Marquesas Islands and survives best on islands free of invasive black rats. Like other lories, it has a brush-tipped tongue specialized for feeding on nectar and pollen. Conservation work includes rat control and translocations to secure, predator-free sites.
Vini ultramarina - Ua Huka - Hane - Marquesas Islands
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy groups that move between flowering trees. Forms strong pair bonds and nests in natural cavities of large trees, including coconut palms. Clutch size is typically two eggs, with both parents attending the nest and young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High-pitched chatters, squeaky contact calls, and sharp screeches in flight. At rest, gives softer, rapid chattering phrases when foraging in flocks.
Plumage
Glossy ultramarine-blue upperparts with white face and underparts finely streaked or scalloped blue; tail and wings deep blue.
Diet
Primarily consumes nectar and pollen using a brush-tipped tongue, visiting a variety of flowering trees such as hibiscus, Erythrina, and coconut. Also takes soft fruits like bananas, mangoes, and breadfruit when available. Occasionally glean small insects and their larvae for protein, especially during breeding.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy of native forest, along forest edges, and in plantations or village gardens with abundant blossoms. Often commutes between patches of flowering trees and can be seen probing flowers methodically.
