he most distinguishing feature
of the Rainbow Lorikeet is diet.
This Psittacidae family member
feeds mainly on nectar and pollen in
the wild, unlike its seed and nut-eating
cousins.
Because their long, slim tongues have
unique, hair-like projections useful for
soaking up nectar, the Rainbow Lorikeet
is commonly referred to as "brushtongued."
A common misconception
people have about this lorikeet is that
it has a weak beak because it doesn’t
have to rely on it to crack open seeds and nuts. However, just the opposite is
true. A lorikeet has a strong beak,
capable of breaking skin with its bite. |
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Rainbow Lorikeets grow to about
10" long, and like many parrots, are
beautifully colored, social, and vocal.
This species plays almost non-stop, and
loves to interact with and be handled by
humans. They communicate in
the form of whistles, calls, and even words.
A Rainbow Lorikeet makes an excellent pet.
However, you should prepare for some
challenges. Due to its social nature, this
bird requires a great deal of attention.
They also require daily cleanup because
their nectar-based diet produces liquid
droppings that often end up on floors and
walls next to the cage. Using floor and
wall protection around the cage will help
reduce these messes and cleanup time.
Pollen and flowers make droppings
more solidified in the wild, but many
owners opt for adding moistened pellets or
powdered diets to supplement these foods
in the cage environment. A Rainbow Lorikeet
will provide years of companionship and
entertainment, requiring a long-term
commitment.
Lorikeets also love to bathe frequently,
and often get their surroundings just as
wet as their own bodies, so be sure to
provide plenty of room to enjoy the water.
Nonetheless, most who have witnessed a
bathing lorikeet agree it’s one of their most
endearing and entertaining activities. |
| Interesting Facts: |
| Genus: |
Trichoglossus |
| Species: |
haematodus |
| Habitat: |
Common in forests, woodlands, and parklands of Australia and New Zealand |
| Behavior: |
Social, vocal, and good natured |
| Family: |
Psittacidae |
| Size: |
About 10" long |
| Diet: |
Nectar-based; in captivity can eat moistened pellets |
| Special Needs: |
Requires a mostly liquid diet, which produces messy droppings |
| Owner Challenges: |
Rainbow Lorikeets are very social and require a lot of attention; can be messy.
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| Life Span: |
20 year average
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| Average Cost: |
$250
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PRODUCTS RELATED TO:
Nutrition
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