Rainbow Lorikeets (Trichoglossus moluccanus) are renowned for their vibrant and striking plumage, making them a common sight in Australia. As members of the Old World Parrot family, they are known for their gregarious nature and often travel in pairs. While predominantly found along the eastern coast of Australia, a population has been established in Perth due to aviary releases. These birds are active, covering up to 30km daily between feeding and roosting sites, and exhibit fascinating nesting behaviors.
Where Rainbow Lorikeets Make Their Homes
Rainbow Lorikeets select deep cavities within the trunks of large trees for nesting, favoring eucalyptus and other trees in the Myrtaceae family. These nesting sites are typically located between three and thirty meters above the ground, offering a safe haven for raising chicks away from predators. The choice of tree species can vary based on habitat; for instance, paperbarks are common in many parts of Australia, while cotton and date palms are favored in suburban Perth. In rare instances, lorikeets may nest in overhanging rocks or, exceptionally, in ground holes, particularly on predator-free islands like the Admiralty Islands. Suitable backyard habitats with native plants, trees offering hollows, and nearby food sources can also attract Rainbow Lorikeets.
| Key Rainbow Lorikeet Nesting Facts |
|---|
| Nesting season (SE Australia) |
| Nesting season (Queensland) |
| Nesting material |
| Nest type |
| Nest location |
| Number of broods |
| Clutch size |
| Egg colour |
| Egg size |
| Incubation period |
| Fledgling period |
| Use nest boxes |
The Appearance of Rainbow Lorikeet Nests
As Rainbow Lorikeet nests are situated within tree cavities, they are rarely seen. The interior of these cavities is typically lined with wood chips, providing a suitable base for eggs. Dried grasses may occasionally be incorporated into the lining. Essentially, the nest is a simple hole within a tree.
Nesting Season Varies by Location
The timing of the nesting season for Rainbow Lorikeets differs geographically. In South-Eastern Australia, nesting typically occurs between August and January. In other regions, breeding can extend throughout most of the year, excluding March. These variations are largely influenced by climate and the availability of food, both critical for successful chick rearing. Rainbow Lorikeets are monogamous and can raise up to three broods per season, with each brood consisting of one to three eggs.
Duration of the Nesting Period
The entire nesting process for Rainbow Lorikeets, from egg-laying to chicks fledging, averages around 57 days. Following fledging, young lorikeets remain under parental care for an additional two to three weeks. Lorikeets raising multiple broods can spend up to 180 days a year nesting, while those in the south-east with a single brood dedicate approximately 57 days to nesting.
Nest Construction: Finding and Lining a Hollow
Rainbow Lorikeets do not construct nests in the traditional sense; instead, they locate suitable tree hollows. Once a nesting site is identified, both the male and female contribute to lining the floor with wood chips, often from decayed wood, and sometimes with dry grasses. Lorikeets meticulously inspect various hollows before selecting one for nesting. These hollows can be natural formations like knot-holes or result from broken branches. Occasionally, pairs may share trees with other lorikeets or bird species. During the breeding season, minor aggressive behaviors, such as biting, may be directed towards birds not part of a pair.
Fledging: When Baby Lorikeets Leave the Nest
Rainbow Lorikeet chicks typically fledge the nest between 54 and 57 days after hatching. Chicks are born altricial, meaning they hatch featherless and with closed eyes, entirely dependent on parental care for protection and sustenance. Fledglings may remain with their parents through the summer before joining communal roosts.
Number of Broods and Egg Laying
Rainbow Lorikeets generally have one to three broods per breeding season. Populations outside of South-East Australia tend to have more broods due to their extended breeding season. Most broods consist of two eggs, though one or, rarely, three eggs can be laid. The female exclusively incubates the eggs, and upon hatching, both parents share the responsibility of feeding the chicks.
Appearance and Timing of Rainbow Lorikeet Eggs
Rainbow Lorikeet eggs are white and oval-shaped, measuring approximately 25-30 mm in length and 21-24 mm in width. In south-eastern populations, eggs are typically laid in August and September. Other populations may lay eggs at various times throughout the year.
Breeding Age and Mating Behavior
Rainbow Lorikeets begin breeding when they reach 12 to 15 months of age. They typically form long-term, often lifelong, pair bonds for breeding.
