Hypocharmosyna placentis
The Red-flanked Lorikeet (Hypocharmosyna placentis) is a dazzling jewel of the Australasian rainforests, a small and highly active parrot belonging to the Psittaculidae family, tribe Loriini. Measuring approximately 15-18 cm (6-7 inches) in length and weighing around 20-30 grams, it is predominantly vibrant green, making it blend seamlessly into its arboreal habitat. Distinctive field marks include the prominent red patches on its flanks and a bright red, often yellow-bordered, facial patch i...
Found primarily in lowland tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, secondary growth, and woodland edges, typically at elevations from sea level up to 1,500 meters.
Mainly nectivorous and palynivorous, feeding on nectar and pollen from a wide variety of flowering trees and shrubs, supplemented by small fruits and occasional insects.
Red-flanked Lorikeets are highly active and gregarious birds, typically observed in noisy flocks ranging from small groups to several dozen individuals foraging high in the canopy. Their daily activity is diurnal, beginning with communal roosts breaking up at dawn to seek out flowering trees, ret...
The Red-flanked Lorikeet has a widespread distribution across the Australasian region, primarily inhabiting New Guinea and its surrounding islands, including the Bismarck Archipelago and the Solomon Islands. On the main island of New Guinea, it is common and broadly distributed across the lowland...
Least Concern
- The Red-flanked Lorikeet is one of the smallest species of lorikeet, often weighing less than a golf ball. - Their specialized brush-tipped tongue is perfectly adapted for lapping up nectar and pollen from flowers. - Despite their vibrant green plumage, they can be remarkably difficult to spot ...