Stella's Lorikeet (Charmosyna papou stellae)
Stella's Lorikeet
Veterinary & Aquatic Services Department, Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
Charmosyna papou stellae
The difference between lories and lorikeets is in their tail, with the lorikeet's tail being decidedly longer. Stella's Lorikeet is a subspecies of
Charmosyna papou
or the Papuan Lorikeet and is the largest of the lorikeets. The
Charmosyna
genus in the family Loriidae is the largest, with 13 species. Common to this group is a subtle sexual dimorphism and a naked cere.
Lorikeets are popular in captivity and easily bred. They are entertaining birds, with many unique behaviors. Some have been known to wrap up in a wash cloth for sleeping. At times, they will sleep on their back, with feet straight in the air. Very intelligent and trainable, they can be taught tricks and can be trained to eliminate in a certain area, on cue. Playful by nature, lorikeets appreciate many toys, including ropes, bells, balls, and swings with variety being the key. They can, however, become quite possessive of their toys, and are capable of delivering a painful bite if their territory and possessions are not respected.
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