Curio

State Library of New South Wales
Rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus), 1790s

Rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus), 1790s

TAL & Dai-ichi Life Derby Collection, Mitchell Library, State Library of NSW; Purchased from The Rt Hon. The 19th Earl of Derby, 2011; PXD 1098, vol. 4, f. 40

Watercolour

Rainbow lorikeets are a species of parrot distributed in coastal regions across northern and eastern Australia.
Rainbow lorikeets feed mainly on nectar and pollen. They also eat fruit, seeds and insects.
Rainbow lorikeets are found in a wide range of tree habitats including rainforests and woodlands as well as urban areas.
Rainbow lorikeet eggs are usually laid on chewed, decayed wood in the hollow limb of a eucalyptus tree.
Rainbow lorikeets are frequently seen in screeching, chattering flocks.
The Rainbow lorikeet is highly coloured with a blue head and belly, green wings, tail and back and an orange/yellow breast.