The diet of Lorikeets Trichoglossus spp. in the Queensland-New South Wales Border Region

Abstract

Whilst Scaly-breasted Lorikeets Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus fed almost exclusively on the flowers of 25 species of trees and shrubs in the Queensland-New South Wales border region, the Rainbow Lorikeet T. haematodus fed on flowers as well as on fruits and leaf buds of 43 species. The greater variety of species in the diet of the Rainbow Lorikeet may have due to this species being sighted more regularly in well planted suburban areas which often have a high plant diversity. The Scaly-breasted Lorikeet, in contrast, was more frequently seen in open agricultural areas. Species of Banksia, Callistemon, Melaleuca, Tristania and particularly Eucalyptus were important food sources for both species. There was seasonal variation in the diet of each lorikeet, but only a few species were important at any particular time. Comparisons are made, where appropriate, between lorikeets and other flower-feeding birds, such as honeyeaters.