Rainbow Lorikeet look-alikes
Trichoglossus moluccanus
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Rainbow Lorikeet. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
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Scaly-breasted Lorikeet
Trichoglossus chlorolepidotus
Key differences
The Scaly-breasted Lorikeet has an entirely green head and back, with prominent yellow 'scales' on its green breast, lacking the blue head and orange breast of the Rainbow Lorikeet. Its underwing coverts are red, not orange-red.
Red-collared Lorikeet
Trichoglossus rubritorquis
Key differences
Formerly considered a subspecies of the Rainbow Lorikeet, the Red-collared Lorikeet (found in northern Australia) has a prominent red-orange collar on its nape, separating the blue head from the green back. Its breast is also more extensively red-orange.
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