Print This | Tell-a-Friend



Blue Lorikeet  (Vini peruviana)

Also Known As: Tahitian Lory, Blue Lory, Tahiti Lorikeet, Indigo Lory, Kuramo (Aitutaki), Nunbird (Aitutaki)
 
MAIN_blue_lorikeet_1

Blue Lorikeets at the San Diego Zoo, Calfornia

Credit: (c) Steve Milpacher
 
photos Photos videoVideo 1
 
eNewsletter SIGNUP FOR EMAIL UPDATES
Did You Know?
The Blue Lorikeet has been recorded foraging for insects on the undersides of leaves, a behaviour quite unlike other lories and lorikeets.

Status in the Wild
World Population:
2500-10,000

Range: Occurs on Society Islands and W Tuamotu Archipelago; formerly further afield. Introduced to Aitutaki, S Cook Islands.

Habitat:
Found in coconut plantations or gardens with flowering banana and mango trees. On Aituaki, where introduced, this species prefers mixed woodland with banana trees and coconut palms, plantations with shade trees and tall forest.

Threat Summary:
Most likely threats are introduced predators, such as black rats Rattus rattus and feral cats, as well as the Swamp Harrier. Recent hurricane activity has also reduced numbers.

IUCN Rating:
Vulnerable

Wild Diet:
Feeds on nectar, but also forages on the ground for small insects.

CITES Rating:
Appendix II

Ecology:
Relies on the coconut palm Cocos nucifera for feeding and nesting. Are very active, not staying in one place for long. Seen in small groups of up to seven individuals flying between flowering coconuts.

Clutch and Egg Size:
2 rounded eggs, 19.5 x 17.0mm (0.7 x 0.6 in)

Breeding Season:
May-July

More Info Sites:
http://www.lorikeets.com/vini.htm

http://cookislands.bishopmuseum.org/showarticle.asp?id=7

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Lorikeet