Rainbow Lorikeet
Trichoglossus moluccanus
Australia & New Guinea • Most Colourful Lory
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The Rainbow Lorikeet (Trichoglossus moluccanus) is one of the most vibrant and beloved parrots in the world. Famous for its spectacular multicoloured plumage — bright blue head, red breast, yellow nape and belly, and green wings — this energetic lorikeet is a true living rainbow. Highly social, playful, and extremely active, Rainbow Lorikeets are nectar specialists that bring constant movement and joy to any aviary. They are excellent talkers and make wonderful companion birds for keepers who can provide a specialized liquid diet and plenty of enrichment.
General Description
| Common Name | Rainbow Lorikeet |
| Latin Name | Trichoglossus moluccanus |
| Family | Psittacidae • Lorikeets & Lories |
| Adult Size | 25–30 cm (10–12 in) |
| Weight | 120–150 g |
| Life Span | 20–30+ years in captivity |
| Sexual Maturity | 1–2 years |
| Clutch Size | 2–3 eggs |
| Gender Difference | Minimal visual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger with broader heads; DNA testing is recommended. |
| Natural Habitat | Rainforests, woodlands, coastal heaths, urban parks, and gardens. |
| Origin / Range | Eastern and northern Australia, eastern Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and the Solomon Islands. |
| Care Level | Intermediate • Requires a specialized liquid nectar diet and frequent feeding |
Trichoglossus moluccanus • Adult showing classic rainbow plumage
AUSTRALIA’S MOST COLOURFUL LORIKEET
Subspecies & Plumage
Several subspecies are recognised across its wide range, differing mainly in the intensity of blue on the head and size:
| Subspecies | Main Range | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| T. m. moluccanus (Nominate) | Eastern Australia | Brightest form with vivid blue head and strong red breast. |
| T. m. septentrionalis | Northern Australia & southern New Guinea | Slightly smaller with more turquoise on the head. |
| T. m. rubritorquis | Timor and nearby islands | Darker red on the breast and more pronounced collar. |
General Plumage Notes: The Rainbow Lorikeet is famous for its spectacular multicoloured appearance — deep blue head, red breast, yellow nape and belly, green wings, and orange-yellow tail. Juveniles are duller with dark eyes that gradually become brighter.
Conservation Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Trichoglossus Genus
Australia & New Guinea
Most Colourful Lorikeet