Lorikeet Care

Congratulations, you are now the proud owner of a beautiful and mischievous lorikeet.

Lorikeets are an amazing and entertaining addition to any person or family. They are full of character; their antics are amusing and endless. Lorikeets can also be quite stubborn and sometimes aggressive towards other birds. You should always be cautious when introducing your new lorikeet to existing pet birds, especially if they are of the same species, as they may fight for dominance. This behaviour is normal – it is a way of establishing who is in charge.

To assist you in keeping your new lorikeet happy and healthy we have put together some basic information for you and your family.

What to feed your lorikeet

Lorikeets are naturally nectar feeders. In the wild they feed on the nectar (pollen) of native flowers such as bottlebrush and grevilleas. They do this using their unique brush-like tongue. They will also feed on berries and fruits and sometimes greens.

Because lorikeets have such a special diet it is important to provide a similar diet to keep them healthy.

Food and water should be given in the morning and changed again in the afternoon as the fresh food will spoil quickly and lose its vitamins and minerals. For your lorikeet’s best health this routine should be adhered to strictly.

Lorikeets love to splash and bathe in water and it is a good idea to offer your bird a separate bath container so they reduce splashing in their drinking water. Ensure your cage is away from anything that may get water damaged.

The complete lorikeet diet

Lorikeet Dry or Wet mix.

These can be purchased from any pet shop or pet supplier. You must offer at least one of these always. Offering both types will provide choice for your lorikeet.These foods mimic natural nectar.

Fresh Fruit. Apples, pears, strawberries, grapes, melon, peaches and cherries are preferred.Try to avoid acidic fruits like orange, lemon, tangerine and mandarin as these may upset their stomach.

Vegetables. Greens are good- try lettuce or celery sticks. Fresh Water.

Fresh water is essential and must be provided always- the more the better, especially if you are feeding your lorikeet a dry diet, as they need to dip their tongue in water after dipping it in the dry nectar.

Foods NOT to feed your lorikeet

Avocado. This is extremely toxic and will cause death in birds.
Chocolate. Toxic to birds, they cannot digest chocolate, which will lead to serious illness.
Caffeine. In any form this is unhealthy and inappropriate.