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Lorikeets 617

discontinued. Record all feedings and observations for each chick’s record. Some caregivers take a
6‐hour rest from hand‐feeding hatchlings overnight, resuming the 2‐hour schedule the next morn-
ing. A range of 55–70% humidity produces quieter, fatter chicks with a greater growth rate than
those kept at levels of 15–35% (Clipsham 1991).
Lorikeet chicks will consume between 5 and 20 ml of formula depending on age and species. Mix
formula fresh for each feeding. Ensure the formula is at a safe temperature for feeding by squirting
a tiny amount on your wrist. It should feel very warm but not hot or cold. See package directions
on the formula for recommended temperatures. When feeding multiple chicks, syringes of food
may be immersed in a glass of very warm water to keep the formula warm. Do not feed cold for-
mula or crop stasis may occur.
When feeding, remove the chick from the container and feed on a paper towel on a flat surface.
Chicks will defecate shortly after feeding. A heat lamp may be necessary to ensure the chick does
not get chilled during feeding. When chicks are housed in small containers, change the substrate
(paper towels) when chicks are removed for feeding.

Older Chicks

As chicks approach 3 weeks of age, feedings can be gradually reduced to 4 times a day. An example
schedule would be 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m. Weigh chicks before the first feed-
ing of the day and compare to previous weights to measure progress. If there is no weight gain two
days in a row, or the weight drops in a pre‐fledging hatchling, seek veterinary advice. Observe the
chick for lethargy, abnormal skin tone, or abnormal behavior.
Clean feathers after feeding. Dried formula may damage feathers. Once the chicks are older, they
will begin cleaning each other. Once the chicks are moved to a weaning cage, a shallow bowl of
prepared commercial lory nectar will encourage them to learn to feed themselves. Feeding by
syringe should continue until they are clearly filling their crops with nectar on their own. Once
eating nectar on their own, start introducing blueberries, papaya, apple, and other fruit.

­ Expected­Weight­Gain

A growth chart for the species being raised can be used as a guideline for the development of the
chicks you are feeding. Weights can vary or be erratic and the chick still be normal. Observation is
your best tool for minimizing problems.
Stoddard (1988) monitors the health and development of young chicks by the:
A) Plumpness of the toes, wings and rump.
B) Skin color – should be beige-pink.
C) Skin texture – should be translucent and soft.
D) Anatomical symmetry – malnourished chicks often have thin feet, toes, and wings as well as a
disproportionately large head.
The expected weight gains of three species of lorikeets are shown in Figure 40.4.

­ Housing

Brooders are available from several sources. Lyon Technologies offers animal intensive care units
that may be used for brooding. Addition companies offer portable brooders that will plug into a
wall outlet and a car cigarette lighter. Water brooders, such as described by HARI, are heated with