Scaly-breasted Lorikeet
Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus
EndemicStatus
CommonRarity
Bird Gallery
1 / 12
Species Description
The Scaly-breasted Lorikeet is a medium-sized, predomitly green parrot native to eastern Australia, easily recognised by its unique yellow “scaly” pattern across the breast and belly. While less flamboyant than the Rainbow Lorikeet, its elegant markings and lively social behaviour make it a favourite among birdwatchers in woodlands, forests, and urban parks. This species is common along the east coast, from northern Queensland to Victoria, and has also established introduced populations near Melbourne.
Fun Facts
Both adults help prepare the nesting hollow by chewing wood, a process that can last up to six weeks before eggs are laid.
1. Predomitly green plumage with distinctive yellow “scales” on the breast and belly
2. Bright coral-red bill and orange-red eyes in adults
3. Noticeably shorter tail than the Rainbow Lorikeet, giving a more compact look
Scaly-breasted Lorikeets inhabit coastal and adjacent tableland regions from Cape York in northern Queensland south to the Illawarra district of New South Wales, with introduced populations around Melbourne. They favour open, lightly timbered areas, eucalypt forests, melaleuca thickets, riverine woodlands, and even urban parks and gardens. While abundant and mostly sedentary in the north, they are less numerous and more nomadic in the south, often moving in response to flowering events. These lorikeets are highly arboreal and often gather in small, noisy flocks, sometimes mixing with Rainbow Lorikeets.
Physical Attributes
Height
23 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds51%
Top Locations
Coming Soon!
Top birding locations will be available in a future update.