Blue Lorikeet
Vini peruviana
VulnerableAves · Psittaciformes · Psittacidae
About
The blue lorikeet is a small lorikeet from French Polynesia and the Cook Islands. It is also known as the Tahiti lorikeet, violet lorikeet, Tahitian lory, blue lory, nunbird, and the indigo lory. It was formerly found on 23 islands around Tahiti, but is now restricted to perhaps eight islands: Aitutaki, Apataki, Arutua, Kaukura, Manuae, Maupihaa, Motu One, Rangiroa, and possibly Manihi and Manuae. Its plumage is mainly dark blue and it has a white area over its upper chest, throat and face. The first captive breeding in the UK was by the Marquess of Tavistock in the 1930s. He was awarded a silver medal by the Foreign Bird League for this achievement.
Fun Fact
Blue plumage, which is shares with the related ultramarine lorikeet, is very unusual in the parrot order.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Endemic to the islands of French Polynesia.
Diet
Feed on insects among leaves and on the forest floor, and on leaf shoots and soft fruits.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Degradation
- Overexploitation
- Invasive Species
- Climate Change