Bird

Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot

Loriculus beryllinus

Also known as Ceylon Lorikeet, Ceylon Hanging Parrot

Sri Lanka hanging parrots are small, vivid green parrots distinguished by a bright red crown, orange-tinged nape, and brilliant crimson rump. True to their name, these nimble birds routinely feed, rest, and sleep upside down while clinging to slender branches with flexible feet. They travel through forest canopies and hillside gardens in small, chatterbox flocks, feeding on flower nectar, fruit juices, and plant sap.

EndemicCanopy DwellerFrugivore

—observations

—countries

—peak records

Least ConcernConservation status

Key facts

Diet & preyFlower nectar, Ficus figs, Plant sap

Predators

Accipiter hawks
Owls
Tree snakes

ThreatsForest fragmentation, loss of nesting hollows

HabitatsTropical rainforests, forest edges, gardens, plantations

Life span10–15 years

Classification

FamilyPsittacidae
SpeciesLoriculus beryllinus

Range & activity

Range data is not available yet.

Safe observation

Interaction riskLow

Low
Moderate
High
Very high

Why interaction risk is low: Safe to observe at a normal distance.
What to notice: Recognizable by its tiny green body, red head patches, and rapid, undulating flight through canopy gaps.
Support conservation: Maintain a quiet distance and avoid disturbing nesting trees or tree hollows during breeding seasons.

Responsible observation

Listen for Calls: Scan the high canopy when you hear their sharp, high-pitched whistling calls.
Locate Feeding Trees: Look around flowering trees and wild fig trees where small groups gather to feed.
Watch Roosting Behavior: Observe branches carefully to catch them clinging upside down like bat-like silhouettes.

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