Lorikeets

Lorikeets are vibrant, energetic parrots known for their specialized brush-tongue for nectar feeding. These colorful birds range from the popular Rainbow Lorikeet to smaller varieties like the Scaly-breasted Lorikeet. Unlike most parrots, they require unique liquid-based diets and frequent cleaning due to their messy eating habits.

ESSENTIAL FACTS

FeatureDetails
Scientific NameTrichoglossus (Rainbow), Psitteuteles (Goldie’s)
Size/Weight10-12 inches | 75-150g (species dependent)
Lifespan15-20 years (up to 25 in captivity)
Special FeatureBrush-tipped tongue for nectar feeding

IDENTIFICATION

FeatureDetails
Rainbow LorikeetBlue head, green wings, orange/yellow chest
Scaly-breastedGreen body with yellow “scales” on chest
Gender DifferencesMinimal visual differences (DNA sexing required)
JuvenilesDuller colors, black beak (lightens with age)

DIET

ComponentDetails
Base DietCommercial nectar powder (mixed fresh 2x daily)
FruitsPapaya, mango, berries (20% of diet)
SupplementsCalcium + Vitamin D3 (critical)
AvoidSeeds, high-iron foods, avocado

HOUSING

FeatureDetails
Cage SizeMinimum 24″W × 36″D × 36″H (for single bird)
SetupStainless steel preferred (resists sticky nectar)
CleaningDaily disinfecting required (nectar molds quickly)
PerchesMultiple textures (cement, natural wood)

BEHAVIOR

TraitDetails
Activity LevelHighly energetic (need 4+ hours out-of-cage)
NoiseLoud screeches (especially mornings/evenings)
Social NeedsBest kept in pairs (single birds need 2+ hrs interaction)
TrainingCan learn tricks but less talkative than other parrots

Lorikeet Pro Tips

Feeding Hack: Use squeeze bottles for nectar to minimize mess.

Health Watch: Check droppings daily – abnormal colors indicate diet issues.

Enrichment: Provide “nectar stations” with hidden food to mimic wild foraging.

lorikeet care tips and products

Lorikeet Care Schedule

DAILY CARE

TaskDetailsBest Time
Nectar Prep
  • Mix fresh nectar powder (no more than 12 hours old)
  • Use warm water (110°F/43°C) for better dissolution
6-7 AM & 4-5 PM
Cage Cleaning
  • Remove spoiled fruit/nectar
  • Wipe perches with vinegar solution
  • Replace cage liner
After breakfast
Fruit Service
  • Offer chopped papaya/mango/berries
  • Remove after 2 hours (prevents fermentation)
Mid-morning
Out-of-Cage Time
  • Minimum 3 hours supervised play
  • Provide “nectar stations” around room
Late afternoon

WEEKLY CARE

TaskDetailsFrequency
Deep Disinfection
  • Soak all dishes in diluted bleach (1:10 ratio)
  • Scrub cage bars with avian-safe cleaner
Sunday
Toy Rotation
  • Introduce 2 new destructible toys
  • Rotate foraging puzzle locations
Wednesday
Weight Check
  • Weigh before morning feeding
  • Record in health journal
Same day weekly

MONTHLY CARE

TaskDetailsWhen
Vet Check
  • Beak/nail trim if needed
  • Fecal exam for yeast/candida
1st week of month
Perch Replacement
  • Swap out worn cement perches
  • Sand rough edges on wood perches
Mid-month
Diet Review
  • Adjust nectar-to-fruit ratio if needed
  • Introduce 1 new safe fruit variety
Last weekend

Seasonal Lorikeet Care

Spring: Increase calcium before breeding season. Monitor for nesting behaviors.

Summer: Provide extra bathing opportunities. Watch for nectar spoilage in heat.

Fall: Begin molting support with added protein. Reduce daylight hours.

Winter: Use ceramic heat emitter (no light). Offer warm nectar mixes.

Essential Lorikeet Products

Cleaning: Avian-safe disinfectant, stainless steel bowls, poop-off spray

Feeding: Nectar mixer bottles, skewers for fruit, gram scale for weighing

Enrichment: Foraging wheels, rope boings, bird-safe chew toys