Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Rainbow Lorikeet
Scientific name: Lorius lory

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: PSITTACIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.04–30.05
Gestation / Incubation: 23–25 jours
Births: 01.05–30.06
Habitat:
Tropical forests, mangroves, wooded savannas
Description:
The Rainbow Lorikeet, or Lorius lory, is a colorful parrot native to the tropical forests of New Guinea and surrounding islands. This stunning bird is distinguished by its vibrant plumage, blending shades of red, blue, green, and yellow. It measures about 25 to 30 cm in length and weighs between 130 and 200 grams. The Rainbow Lorikeet is known for its curved beak and brush-tipped tongue, adapted to its diet mainly consisting of nectar and fruits. Sociable and noisy, it often lives in groups and is renowned for its aerial acrobatics. Its ability to mimic sounds also makes it a popular bird in captivity.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Rainbow Lorikeet, choose early morning hours when the light is soft and the bird is most active. Use a telephoto lens of 400mm or more to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and wait for it to perch on an open branch. Tropical forests provide an ideal natural background, but make sure to expose your subject well to highlight its bright colors. A tripod can be helpful to stabilize your camera, especially if using a long focal length.