Sunset lorikeet facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Sunset lorikeet
Conservation status
Endangered (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Aves
Order:	Psittaciformes
Family:	Psittaculidae
Genus:	Trichoglossus
Species:	T. forsteni
Binomial name
Trichoglossus forsteni Bonaparte, 1850
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The sunset lorikeet (Trichoglossus forsteni) is a beautiful type of parrot. It's also known as the scarlet-breasted lorikeet or Forsten's lorikeet. These colorful birds are special because they are endemic to (meaning they only live in) certain Indonesian islands. You can find them on Bali, Lombok, Sumbawa, Tanah Jampea, and Kalaotoa.

Scientists used to think the sunset lorikeet was a type of subspecies (a group within a species) of the rainbow lorikeet. But after looking closely in 1997, they decided it was its own separate species.

About the Sunset Lorikeet

The sunset lorikeet is one of the darkest and most colorful birds in the rainbow lorikeet family. It has a dark bluish head that stands out against a bright lime green neck. Its chest is a deep scarlet red, which looks amazing next to its dark bluish belly. One type of sunset lorikeet, called stresemanni, has a deep orange chest instead of scarlet.

Where Do They Live?

Sunset lorikeets live in forests, woodlands, and even on farms. On the island of Sumbawa, they live in areas below 1,200 meters (about 3,900 feet) high. But on Lombok, they can be found much higher, up to 2,150 meters (about 7,050 feet).

At Cincinnati Zoo, USA

Why Are They in Danger?

Sadly, the sunset lorikeet is an Endangered bird. This means there are serious worries about their future. They only live in a small area, and their homes are being destroyed. This is called habitat destruction. People are also catching them to sell as pets in the parrot trade.

While they are still somewhat common on Sumbawa, they are rare or hard to find on other islands. It looks like they might have completely disappeared from Tanahjampea. They may also be gone from Bali and Kalaotoa. It's important to protect these amazing birds and their homes!