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

Feature Details
Scientific Name Trichoglossus (Rainbow), Psitteuteles (Goldie’s)
Size/Weight 10-12 inches | 75-150g (species dependent)
Lifespan 15-20 years (up to 25 in captivity)
Special Feature Brush-tipped tongue for nectar feeding

IDENTIFICATION

Feature Details
Rainbow Lorikeet Blue head, green wings, orange/yellow chest
Scaly-breasted Green body with yellow “scales” on chest
Gender Differences Minimal visual differences (DNA sexing required)
Juveniles Duller colors, black beak (lightens with age)

DIET

Component Details
Base Diet Commercial nectar powder (mixed fresh 2x daily)
Fruits Papaya, mango, berries (20% of diet)
Supplements Calcium + Vitamin D3 (critical)
Avoid Seeds, high-iron foods, avocado

HOUSING

Feature Details
Cage Size Minimum 24″W × 36″D × 36″H (for single bird)
Setup Stainless steel preferred (resists sticky nectar)
Cleaning Daily disinfecting required (nectar molds quickly)
Perches Multiple textures (cement, natural wood)

BEHAVIOR

Trait Details
Activity Level Highly energetic (need 4+ hours out-of-cage)
Noise Loud screeches (especially mornings/evenings)
Social Needs Best kept in pairs (single birds need 2+ hrs interaction)
Training Can 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

Task Details Best 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

Task Details Frequency
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

Task Details When
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