Swainson's Lorikeet
Trichoglossus moluccanus

Here at Banham Zoo
Also known as the rainbow lorikeet, these birds are hard to miss at Banham Zoo! With vibrant blue, red, yellow, and green feathers, they stand out visually, but you'll probably hear them before you see them, thanks to their loud calls.
Rainbow lorikeets feed mainly on nectar and pollen, using their specially adapted tongues to collect food efficiently.
Where Do I Live?
Australia
Swainson's lorikeets live in eastern Australia and are found in a variety of habitats including forests, coconut plantations and mangroves.
What Do I Eat?
These birds feed mainly on nectar and pollen and have a tongue specially adapted to do so. They will also eat fruit such as figs and mango.
How Do I Breed?
They nest in pairs in high tree hollows. A courtship display involves wing fluttering to reveal an under wing pattern. They lay two or three eggs, which are incubated for 25 days. The chicks fledge the nest at around eight weeks old.
Together, we protect wildlife
Conservation status
Least Concern (LC)
Lowest risk of endangerment.
The Swainson's lorikeet is not classed as endangered, however it is listed on Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which regulates international trade in this species.
Some Helpful Links
Where is the
Swainson's Lorikeet
located?
Our
Swainson's Lorikeet
is located in our
Zoo Central
, map reference
2
.
What’s the best time to see the animals?
The best time to see our animals is often during feeding times or in the cooler parts of the day when they are most active. Check our daily timetable for keeper talks and feeding sessions for an up-close look! Our habitat signage also includes helpful hints and tips to make the most of your visit.
How do you ensure the animals' welfare?
Animal welfare is our top priority. We provide species-specific habitats, enrichment activities, and expert veterinary care to ensure all our animals thrive.