Brief Introduction to Species
The Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus) is perhaps the most vibrant and energetic bird you could ever share your home with. Unlike most parrots, they are nectarivores, meaning their biology is designed for flowers and fruit rather than seeds. They are famous for their "brush-tongues," their acrobatic flying, and their bold, often cheeky personalities. If you are looking for a quiet, sedentary pet, the Lorikeet is not for you—but if you want a playful, busy, and colourful companion, they are second to none.
Fast Facts
Housing Requirements
Lorikeets are "busy" birds that require significant space for movement and play.
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Cage Choice: Because their diet is liquid-based, their droppings are also liquid. Choose a cage with easy-to-clean surfaces and consider placing a plastic mat under and behind the cage to protect your walls and floors.
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Bar Spacing: Ensure spacing is 1.5cm to 2cm.
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Layout: Use wide, flat perches and plenty of swings. Lorikeets love to hang upside down and wrestle with their toys, so ensure the cage isn't so cluttered that they can't perform their acrobatics.
Diet & Nutrition
Feeding a Lorikeet is fundamentally different from feeding any other parrot. Never feed them a standard bird seed mix, as they cannot digest it properly.
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Nectar Mix: The staple must be a high-quality commercial "Lory Nectar" (available in wet or dry formulas). This provides the essential pollen and sugars they need.
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Fresh Fruit: Offer daily portions of pear, melon, apple (no seeds), and papaya.
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Native Flora: If safe and pesticide-free, offer fresh blossoms from Grevillea, Bottlebrush, or Banksia.
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Avoid: Avocado, chocolate, caffeine, and bread.
Health & Wellness
Because of their high-sugar diet, Lorikeets are particularly prone to bacterial and fungal infections if their environment isn't pristine.
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Common Issues: Sour Crop (yeast infections), Vitamin A deficiency, and "Clenched Claw Syndrome" (often related to diet).
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Weight Management: While active, they can become overweight if their nectar mix is too high in artificial sugars.
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Warning Signs: If your Lorikeet becomes quiet, stops grooming, or has "pasty" vent feathers, seek veterinary help immediately.
Training & Socialisation
Lorikeets are highly intelligent and "hand-oriented" birds.
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The "Lory Roll": Many Lorikeets love to roll onto their backs in your hand—a sign of immense trust and playfulness.
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Voice: They are decent mimics and can learn to say several words or whistle popular tunes with a slightly "gravelly" tone.
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Nipping: They can be "beaky" when excited. It’s important to redirect this energy into a foot toy rather than allowing them to chew on your fingers.
Enrichment & Exercise
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Water Play: Lorikeets love water. A shallow dish for bathing is essential, and many will happily "swim" under a dripping tap.
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Foot Toys: Provide plastic balls with bells inside, wooden beads, and wiffle balls. They enjoy carrying things and throwing them.
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Supervised Flight: At least 2–3 hours of out-of-cage time is necessary for them to burn off their high-octane energy.
Grooming & Hygiene
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Daily Cleaning: This is the most demanding part of Lorikeet ownership. Because of their liquid diet, the cage and surrounding area must be cleaned daily to prevent bacteria growth and odours.
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Bathing: Encourage daily bathing to help them keep their feathers clean from any nectar residue.
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Beak and Nails: Provided they have natural, rough-barked perches, their grooming needs are minimal.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Consult your veterinarian for personalised guidance regarding your pet's health. We do not practice veterinary medicine, and reliance on the provided information is at your own risk. If your pet has a medical issue, contact your veterinarian promptly.