Exotic Fruits and Seeds in the Diet of Lorikeets in Northern New South Wales

Abstract

Casual observations are presented of lorikeets Trichoglossus spp. feeding in northern New South Wales. The lorikeets fed on a range of naturalised and cultivated fruits and seeds in human-modified habitats. This presumably supplements the diet of these species during times of low native-flower availability. The fruit of Camphor Laurel Cinnamomum camphora, a widespread weed in north-eastern New South Wales, comprises a widely used seasonal element in the diet of Scaly-breasted Lorikeets T. chlorolepidotus locally. Lorikeets demonstrate flexible behaviour, including ground-foraging, in exploiting exotic fruit.