Trichoglossus iris
The Iris Lorikeet, *Trichoglossus iris*, is a vibrant and diminutive member of the parrot family, Psittaculidae, endemic to the islands of Timor and Wetar in eastern Indonesia. Measuring approximately 18-20 cm (7-8 inches) in length and weighing around 45-60 grams, this species is characterized by its brilliant emerald-green plumage covering most of its body. Its most striking feature, and the origin of its common name, is the iridescent violet-blue crown, framed by an orange-yellow nape and ...
Predominantly found in tropical and subtropical moist lowland forests, monsoon forests, and wooded areas, including cultivated lands and coconut plantations, from sea level up to approximately 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) in elevation.
Primarily nectivorous and frugivorous, feeding on nectar, pollen, and soft fruits, with a specialized brush-tipped tongue adapted for collecting floral resources; occasionally supplements its diet with small insects and larvae.
Iris Lorikeets are highly diurnal, spending their days actively foraging in the forest canopy. They typically roost communally in dense foliage, often returning to the same sites nightly, sometimes forming noisy gatherings. Foraging involves agile climbing and acrobatic maneuvers to access flower...
The Iris Lorikeet is an insular endemic, strictly confined to the islands of Timor and Wetar, which are part of Indonesia's Lesser Sunda Islands. On Timor, it is found across both the Indonesian (West Timor) and East Timorese (Timor-Leste) portions of the island, typically inhabiting forests from...
Near Threatened
- The Iris Lorikeet is among the smallest members of the *Trichoglossus* genus, weighing less than a golf ball. - It possesses a unique brush-tipped tongue, perfectly adapted for mopping up nectar and pollen from flowers. - Despite its small size, it can be quite noisy, with high-pitched screeche...