Unfortunately I didn't reach Walsrode until the parrot was still alive. Now it can be seen only in San Diego.
Blue Lorikeet Does anybody know if this animal is the last survivor of the 1970s [1980s?] consignment? Confiscated by US Customs, this illegal shipment went to a private breeder in the UK as the alternative to destruction. She bred from them, and some went back to San Diego. My understanding was that, while fairly free breeders, sustained proagation hit a few snags. Must check Avicultural Magazine index....
No, these were confiscated in Belgium circa 2004. San Diego sent their youngest females to Germany in 06 or 07 but they died not long after arrival. I believe the biggest obstacle with breeding this species is mate killing. The species is no longer present in San Diego.
I do not remember exactly but in october 2007 in Walsrode probably seen a total of 3 individuals. However, in october 2009 and july 2010 I saw two birds in two separate aviarys.
An amazing species, my favourite Lorikeet. The last one died few months before my first visit to Walsrode, a pity this species is lost in zoos now.