Glossopsitta

Glossopsitta is a genus of Australian lorikeets, commonly known as pygmy parrots. These small, vibrant birds are characterized by their short, blunt tails and their specialized brush-tipped tongues, which are adapted for feeding on nectar and pollen. The genus currently contains three recognized species, all found in Australia.

The most widespread species is the little pygmy parrot, Glossopsitta concinna. It inhabits forests and woodlands across eastern Australia, including Tasmania. Its plumage is predominantly green with a red forehead, blue crown, and yellow underparts. The purple-crowned lorikeet, Glossopsitta porphyrocephala, is found in the southern parts of Australia, favoring eucalyptus forests. It is similar in size to the little pygmy parrot but is distinguished by its purple crown and a characteristic scarlet band across its throat. The third species, the musk lorikeet, Glossopsitta pusilla, is the smallest of the genus. It is found in eastern Australia and is primarily green with a red forehead and a small blue patch on its crown.

These lorikeets are highly social and often seen in small flocks, particularly when feeding or roosting. Their diet consists mainly of nectar, pollen, and fruits from various flowering plants, especially eucalypts. They play an important role as pollinators in their ecosystems. Breeding usually occurs in tree hollows. The genus name Glossopsitta is derived from the Greek words "glossa" meaning tongue and "psitta" meaning parrot, referring to their distinctive feeding apparatus.