Rainbow Lorikeets in Sydney: Colourful Characters of the Coast

The rainbow lorikeet is one of the most recognisable and widespread native birds in Sydney. Known for its vivid plumage—blue head, green wings, orange-yellow breast, and red beak—it’s a common sight in both urban areas and coastal bushland.

These birds are nectar feeders and play an important role in pollinating native flowering trees such as eucalypts, grevilleas, and bottlebrushes. Their brush-tipped tongues are specially adapted to extract nectar and pollen from blossoms. In Sydney, rainbow lorikeets are active throughout the day, often flying in fast-moving, noisy flocks as they forage for food.

On my tours, we frequently encounter them feeding in flowering trees or resting in the canopy. They’re especially noticeable in the late afternoon, when they begin to gather in large numbers.

At sunset, rainbow lorikeets often return to communal roosting sites—typically a single large tree near the beach or in parklands. These roosting spots can attract hundreds of birds, creating a loud and spectacular display as they settle in for the night. Their calls are sharp and constant, and the sight of so many brightly coloured birds coming together in one place is a memorable part of the experience.

If you're visiting Sydney and hoping to observe native birdlife up close, rainbow lorikeets are a perfect introduction - and a highlight of many of my nature and wildlife tours.