Species profile

Red-fronted Lorikeet

Charmosyna rubronotata

Quick answer

Range C. r. kordoana Biak, Supiori. Status Endemic subspecies. Obtained by three collectors including Ripley. During July 1982 KDB observed it commonly, invariably in flocks of ten to c. 30, in flowering trees and coconuts both on Biak and Supiori (up to c. 350 m). Gibbs (1993) found it in large flocks at flowering trees near Korrido, Supiori. Subsequently, very few visitors have reported the species, but they have seemingly mistaken it for the very similar Red-flanked Lorikeet C. placentis. The endemic subspecies C. r. kordoana is very similar to C. placentis and records of the latter require verification. M. Halaouate (in litt. 2021) noted it is still widespread especially in the remaining forests in northern Biak. It has been seen feeding on coconut blooms and on the nectar of flowering Malayan Apple Syzygium malaccense with Black-capped Lory Lorius lory, Black-winged Lory Eos cyanogenia and Red-cheeked Parrot Geoffroyus geoffroyi.

Scientific name
Charmosyna rubronotata
Family
Psittacidae
Order
Psittaciformes
Genus
Charmosyna
Conservation status
Least Concern

Recording Red-fronted Lorikeet in your journal

When you see this bird, log the sighting with the date, the place and any photos. If it's your first, Feather Journal marks it as a lifer and adds it to your life list automatically — no spreadsheet, no re-typing.