Where “Lorikeet” Comes From
Lorikeets are small, fast parrots with brilliant colours. The rainbow lorikeet, with its blue head, green back and orange chest, is a common sight in eastern Australia.
They feed on nectar and pollen from flowering trees, and they gather in noisy groups, especially at dusk.
“Rainbow lorikeets swarmed the flowering gum.”
How Aussies Actually Use It
You’ll hear it in the garden, at the park and at wildlife sanctuaries.
In Real Life
Rainbow lorikeets are some of the most colourful birds in the suburbs, and they’re very noisy. In flowering season they swarm native trees such as grevilleas and eucalypts. Some wildlife parks hold supervised feedings, but feeding wild birds at home isn’t recommended. A flock arriving in the evening is a loud show.
Quick Questions
What do lorikeets eat?
Mainly nectar, pollen and some fruit.
Why are lorikeets so noisy?
They live and roost in big flocks, and they call to stay in touch.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: LOR-ih-keet.
In conversation:
- The lorikeets are back in the tree.
- A rainbow lorikeet landed on the railing.
- Lorikeets screech at dusk.
Good to know: Wildlife experts advise against feeding wild lorikeets, because the wrong food can make them sick.
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