Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus
The Scaly-breasted Lorikeet, *Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus*, is a vibrant and active parrot species endemic to eastern Australia, renowned for its striking emerald plumage. Averaging 23 cm (9 inches) in length and weighing between 75-90 grams, its most distinctive feature is the bright green body contrasting with the prominent yellow-scaled pattern across its breast, which gives the species its common name. A flash of orange-red on the underwing coverts is visible in flight, aiding in identi...
This species thrives in a variety of arboreal habitats, primarily eucalypt woodlands, open forests, and increasingly, suburban parks and gardens. They are typically found from sea level up to moderate elevations, rarely exceeding 1000 meters.
The primary diet consists of nectar and pollen, gathered efficiently with their specialized brush-tipped tongues, supplemented with fruits, seeds, and occasionally small insects. They are crucial pollinators for many native Australian flowering plants.
Scaly-breasted Lorikeets are highly diurnal and exceptionally active birds, often observed moving in swift, noisy flocks, particularly during morning and late afternoon foraging bouts. They roost communally in large groups in favored trees, providing safety in numbers. Their foraging strategies i...
The Scaly-breasted Lorikeet is endemic to coastal and sub-coastal eastern Australia, spanning from the Cape York Peninsula in northern Queensland southwards to northeastern New South Wales. Its distribution generally follows the eastern seaboard, extending inland to the Great Dividing Range where...
Least Concern
- The Scaly-breasted Lorikeet possesses a unique brush-tipped tongue, perfectly adapted for lapping up nectar and pollen from flowers. - They are remarkably agile flyers and can hover briefly in front of blossoms, much like hummingbirds. - This species is an important pollinator for many native A...