San Diego Zoo Safari Park Provides Sanctuary for New Birds at Lorikeet Landing

Thirty more birds have joined the existing population at the Lorikeet Landing aviary at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, nearly doubling the population from 43 to 73 lorikeets. The new birds came from an already-established flock and keepers say the new birds are very social and integrating well with the existing flock. In the Lorikeet Landing aviary, guests can see the new birds and experience the thrill of feeding the lorikeets by hand. Upon entering the aviary, the colorful birds can be seen flying around and landing on guests who have purchased a cup of nectar to feed them. The aviary is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. daily and is located in the Nairobi Village at the park. Lorikeets are social birds that usually travel from tree to tree in large, squawking flocks in search of flowers and nectar, chattering as they feed. Their small size and bright colors help lorikeets hide in trees, usually staying safe from would-be predators, such as birds of prey and snakes. Many lory and lorikeet species spend time grooming a partner during rest periods. Lorikeets live in a flock but form long-lasting pairs, as most parrots do. While lorikeets are interesting to observe, they also serve an important role as pollinators. The birds feed on nectar from various plants and that feeding helps transfer pollen. Lorikeets use their unique tongue, with its brush-like texture, to drink nectar. Guests can watch that feeding behavior in the Lorikeet Landing aviary while experiencing the birds up close. The Safari Park's Facebook page is running an Instagram Contest through Jan.5, where guests can share their best photos from the Lorikeet Landing experience for a chance to win a private balloon safari for 10 people. For more information about the contest or to see submitted Lorikeet Landing Instagrams, go to www.bit.ly/lorikeetlanding. Bringing species back from the brink of extinction is the mission of San Diego Zoo Global.