Black-capped lorikeet

Romeo:  Unknown sex and hatch date.  Acquired by the Zoo on November 1, 2011.

Pluto:  Unknown sex and hatch date.  Acquired by the Zoo on November 1, 2011.

Viewing Hints

Come feed us at Lorikeet Encounter, open 10:30-12:30 and 1:30- 4:00 during the summer season.

Where to find me in the Zoo

Lorikeet Encounter

Fun Facts

• The black-capped lory is known for its ability to mimic and produce a wide variety of whistles.
• A lory's tongue is covered with small "brushes" called papillae that are specially adapted for obtaining their diet of pollen and nectar.

Ask an Expert

The distinctive black cap that covers the forehead, crown and nape gives this lory its name. The rest of the head and neck as well as the upper breast is red. The lower abdomen a dark blue and the wings green above.

Behavior

Unlike many species of lories and lorikeets that live in larger flocks, the black-capped lory is more often found in pairs or family groups although they do congregate to feed. While in flight, they give a loud musical call that is often repeated. A variety of loud whistles can also be given when perched.

Reproduction

Form monogamous pairs that nest in tree cavities. A typical clutch has 2 eggs which take 25 to 27 days to hatch. The young remain in the nest an average of 70 days with both parents caring for the chicks.

Size

Approximately 12 inches (30.48 cm) in length

Weight

8 to 10 ounces (226.8 - 283.5 g)

Diet

In the wild, the black-capped lory feeds mainly on pollen, nectar and fruit. At the Zoo, the birds are offered a variety of foods through-out the day. Their favorite fruit is apples and they also love apple sauce. Nectar is provided in both a liquid and dry form and the birds enjoy both. The majority of their nutrients come from the parrot pellets offered as the base of the diet.

Geographic Range

Lowland forests and freshwater swamps of New Guinea and offshore islands