Rainbow Lorikeet: Breeding, Diet, Prices

Written by: Petrus Albertus Van Tonder

September 28, 2024

Updated on October 20, 2024

AviculturistPetrus Albertus Van Tonder

At World Wide Birds, I am passionate about the vibrant and diverse world of birds. My mission is to provide the highest level of care, knowledge, and support to bird enthusiasts, breeders, and pet owners. With years of hands-on experience in aviculture, I strive to be a trusted resource for those who share our love for these remarkable creatures.

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Expertises: Aviculture, Twitcher and birder, Wildlife photographer, Bird writer

Rainbow Lorikeet: Breeding Rainbow Lorikeets (Trichoglossus moluccanus^[1]) can be a rewarding yet challenging task, given their specific needs. Below are essential points to consider when breeding them in captivity:

1. Pairing and Compatibility

• Pairing: Rainbow Lorikeets usually reach sexual maturity between 1-2 years of age, although some pairs may take longer to bond and begin breeding.
• Monogamous Bonds: These birds typically form strong monogamous bonds with a mate, so it’s important to let them choose their partner. Forcing pairs can result in aggression and failure to breed.

2. Nesting

• Nesting Boxes: Provide a wooden nesting box measuring approximately 10x10x18 inches, with a 3-inch entrance hole. Lining the box with wood shavings or shredded paper helps keep eggs and chicks warm.
• Nesting Preferences: They prefer enclosed nest boxes placed in a quiet and secure part of the aviary or cage. In the wild, Rainbow Lorikeets nest in tree hollows, so mimicking this environment is essential.

3. Breeding Season

• Rainbow Lorikeets typically breed in the wild during spring and summer (August to January in Australia), but in captivity, they may breed year-round if conditions are favorable.
• During breeding season, it’s crucial to provide them with an adequate and protein-rich diet.

4. Egg Laying and Incubation

• Clutch Size: Females usually lay 2 eggs per clutch, which are incubated for about 24-26 days. Both parents share the responsibility of incubation and later, feeding the chicks.
• Chick Development: After hatching, chicks are dependent on their parents for warmth and food for about 8 weeks before they fledge. During this period, they should not be disturbed excessively.

5. Feeding During Breeding^[2]

Rainbow Lorikeet Tongue:
The tip of a lorikeet’s tongue holds a brush-like appendage, enabling the bird to feed on pollen, nectar, and fruits.
Because lorikeets are mainly seen feeding on blossoms, it was long thought that nectar was their staple diet.
However, studies have now shown that pollen is probably their major food.
They also eat insects and insect larvae, together with other invertebrates found in foliage and blossoms.
Source: NSW Govt. Environment and Heritage

• Nectar and Fruits^[3]: Rainbow Lorikeets are nectarivores, so provide them with commercial lorikeet nectar supplemented with fresh fruits like apples^[4], pears, and grapes.
• Protein: During breeding, they benefit from additional protein sources such as egg food, soaked seeds, or mealworms. Protein is vital for the growth of chicks.
• Calcium: Offering calcium supplements (like cuttlebone or mineral blocks) is essential for strong eggshell development and the health of the female during egg-laying.

6. Chick Care

• Feeding Chicks: Both parents feed the chicks a regurgitated nectar mixture. Once chicks begin to fledge at around 8 weeks, they will start eating on their own, but continue to rely on their parents for food for a few weeks.
• Weaning: Chicks are fully weaned and independent at around 10-12 weeks, at which point they can be separated from the parents.

7. Rainbow Lorikeet Challenges

• Aggression: Rainbow Lorikeets can be territorial, especially during the breeding season. If housed with other birds, ensure there is enough space to minimize conflicts.
• Mess and Hygiene: Their liquid-based diet can make them messy, so daily cleaning of cages and nests is important for their health.

8. Rainbow Lorikeet General Tips

• Observation: Regularly observe the birds during breeding to ensure both parents are contributing to incubation and feeding, and that there is no aggression toward the chicks.
• Veterinary Support: Have a reliable avian vet on hand to deal with potential issues such as egg binding, aggression, or malnutrition.

By providing the right environment, diet, and care, breeding Rainbow Lorikeets can be successful in captivity. They are highly social and active, making them a delight to observe as they raise their young.

Rainbow Lorikeet prices:

In general, the selling price of Lories in New Zealand is higher than in many other countries. This is a reflection on the relatively few breeders in New Zealand and the small population of breeding lories.

Pricing varies depending on immediate availability, recent sales both from pet stores and from Breeders suggest the following prices for single birds, pairs (cock and hen), and mutations in New Zealand dollars:

Rainbow lorikeet $250 to $300, $900/olive, Pair greens $500 to $600^[5]

To learn more about Lorikeet mutations and Genetics.^[6]

Other lorikeet and lory species^[7] are discussed on our website.

In-depth discussion about Breeding Lorries and Lorikeets.

Rainbow lorikeet deep-dive conversation podcast:

Rainbow lorikeet video with deep-dive conversation:

AviculturistPetrus Albertus Van Tonder

At World Wide Birds, I am passionate about the vibrant and diverse world of birds. My mission is to provide the highest level of care, knowledge, and support to bird enthusiasts, breeders, and pet owners. With years of hands-on experience in aviculture, I strive to be a trusted resource for those who share our love for these remarkable creatures.

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Expertises: Aviculture, Twitcher and birder, Wildlife photographer, Bird writer