Vini stepheni
The Stephen's Lorikeet (Vini stepheni) is a jewel-toned member of the parrot family, renowned for its striking plumage and extreme endemism. This small lorikeet measures approximately 19 cm (7.5 inches) in length and weighs between 39-44 grams, showcasing a vibrant display of colors. Its most distinctive field marks include a deep crimson-red on the head, breast, and belly, contrasting sharply with a bright blue crown and nape, and a vivid green back, wings, and tail. The underwing coverts ar...
This lorikeet is exclusively found in the primary broadleaf forests and dense inland vegetation of Henderson Island, an uplifted coral atoll. It inhabits all elevation levels of the island's forested interior, from near sea level to the island's central plateau.
Stephen's Lorikeets primarily feed on nectar and pollen from a variety of flowering plants, supplemented with soft fruits, berries, and occasionally small insects. They use their specialized brush-tipped tongues to lap up liquid sustenance.
Stephen's Lorikeets are highly arboreal and diurnal, active throughout the day feeding and interacting within the forest canopy, typically roosting communally in tree cavities or dense foliage at night. Their foraging strategy involves agile movements through trees, using their brush-like tongues...
The Stephen's Lorikeet has an extremely restricted geographic distribution, being endemic solely to Henderson Island in the Pitcairn Group, located in the South Pacific Ocean. This uninhabited uplifted coral atoll, approximately 37 square kilometers (14 square miles) in area, represents the speci...
Vulnerable
- The Stephen's Lorikeet is one of the most geographically restricted bird species in the world, found only on Henderson Island. - Its scientific name honors Captain H. M. Stephen, who collected the first specimen in 1899. - Despite its tiny home island being uninhabited by humans, the lorikeet f...