Loriinae

Loriinae is a subfamily of parrots that comprises the lories and lorikeets. Members of this group are noted for their bright, often multicolored plumage and for specialized brush-tipped tongues adapted to feeding on nectar and pollen. They are generally medium-sized to small parrots and are highly arboreal, occurring in forests and wooded areas.

Taxonomically, Loriinae is placed within the order Psittaciformes and is treated as a subfamily within the modern psittacine family Psittaculidae in many classifications. The group includes several genera, among them Trichoglossus (lorikeets), Lorius (lories), and Vini, with a diversity of species distributed across Australia, New Guinea, Melanesia, and parts of Southeast Asia. The rainbow lorikeet (Trichoglossus haematodus) is one of the best-known members.

Ecology and behavior: the diet is dominated by nectar and pollen, supplemented by fruit and occasionally small insects. The brush-tipped tongue enables efficient nectar feeding, and many species play important roles as pollinators. Loriinae are typically social, often foraging in flocks that can include individuals from multiple species, and they are diurnal and vocal.

Reproduction: lorikeets and lories nest in tree hollows, with small clutch sizes common. Both parents usually participate in incubation and chick rearing, and fledging periods vary among species.

Conservation status varies by species. Habitat loss and the pet trade threaten some lorikeet and lory populations, while others remain widespread and common. The Loriinae are widely kept in captivity and are popular for their vibrant coloration, though captive care requires attention to their specialized nectar-based diet.