Charminetta wilhelminae
The Pygmy Lorikeet (Charminetta wilhelminae) is a jewel among parrots, renowned for being one of the smallest species within the diverse Loriini tribe. Measuring a mere 13 cm (5.1 inches) in length and weighing just 20-24 grams, this diminutive bird sports a vibrant green body contrasting sharply with its striking dark brown to black crown and nape, often accentuated by a variable but distinct red patch on its face. Its rapid, direct flight and high-pitched, twittering calls are key field mar...
Inhabits primary montane and submontane rainforests, cloud forests, and their edges, typically found at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,500 meters (2,600-8,200 feet) above sea level.
Feeds primarily on nectar and pollen from a wide variety of flowering trees and shrubs; occasionally consumes small fruits and insect larvae.
Pygmy Lorikeets are diurnal, highly active birds, spending their days foraging energetically within the forest canopy and sub-canopy. They often form small, noisy flocks of 3-7 individuals, though larger aggregations of up to 20 have been observed, particularly at abundant food sources; these flo...
The Pygmy Lorikeet is endemic to the island of New Guinea, where it is widely distributed across both the Indonesian provinces of Papua and West Papua, and Papua New Guinea. Its range encompasses the central mountain ranges, including the Vogelkop Peninsula in the west, the Foja and Arfak Mountai...
Least Concern
- The Pygmy Lorikeet is one of the smallest parrot species in the world, a true marvel of miniature avian engineering. - It possesses a highly specialized, brush-tipped tongue perfectly adapted for lapping up nectar and collecting pollen from flowers. - Despite its tiny size, its flight is incred...