The threat of rainbow lorikeet
Rainbow lorikeets being hand fed
Evidence shows that rainbow lorikeets compete with native birds by dominating their food sources and nesting sites. They are capable of dislodging much larger birds than themselves. They may also carry avian diseases which can threaten the health of native bird species.
Competition and exclusion
Observations at suburban bird feeders near the original release site have confirmed that tūī formerly using these nectar feeders have been excluded by groups of rainbow lorikeets. While our native birds will generally defend these resources in singles, pairs or adopt a pecking order, rainbow lorikeets will descend on a food source in a flock and easily displace these species.
Rainbow lorikeets are strong flyers and have been recorded travelling over thirty kilometres between roosting sites and feeding grounds in Auckland. Because of this flying ability, they pose a significant threat to those species whose survival is only possible on island sanctuaries which have been cleared of predators.
As well as competing with the at-risk species, rainbow lorikeets could carry avian diseases (such as Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease which is widespread in captive parrots) to these populations, including some of our endangered native parrots.
Native species at risk
Native honey eaters, like the tūī, bellbird, and hihi (stitchbird), are at risk of competition from rainbow lorikeets as they utilise the same food sources. Native cavity nesters, such as kākā, kākāriki, and short-tailed and long-tailed bats, may be at risk from rainbow lorikeets competing for their nest and roost sites.
Threats to our horticultural industry
Rainbow lorikeets can damage apples, grapes and other soft fruit, with the potential to significantly impact orchards and vineyards. They pose an economic threat to the commercial fruit growing industry.
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