Ultramarine Lorikeet
Vini ultramarina
Overview
The ultramarine lorikeet is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae, endemic to the Marquesas Islands. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical moist montane forest and plantations. It is critically endangered, threatened mainly by introduction of the black rat and by deforestation.
The Ultramarine Lorikeet faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from deforestation and agricultural expansion across its limited range in the Marquesas Islands. Introduced predators, particularly black rats and feral cats, pose significant threats to nesting birds and their eggs. Competition from introduced bird species for food resources and nesting sites further compounds population pressures on this already critically endangered endemic species.
Habitat
The Ultramarine Lorikeet inhabits native forests and woodland areas in the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia, particularly favoring areas with flowering trees that provide nectar sources. It occurs in both primary and secondary forest habitats from sea level to mountainous regions, showing preference for areas with abundant native flowering plants.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in PSITTACIDAE
Threatened in French Polynesia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Ultramarine Lorikeet classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Ultramarine Lorikeet live?
What are the main threats to Ultramarine Lorikeet?
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