Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome (LPS)

A beautiful Rainbow lorikeet

Over summer, many in our community would have noticed lorikeets affected by Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome (LPS).

LPS is a paralytic disease of wild (and less commonly captive) lorikeets, mostly seen in rainbow lorikeets and scaly-breasted lorikeets.

LPS has been occurring several years now and appears to be occurring seasonally. Lorikeets are found on the ground unable to fly.

It is seen in south-east Queensland and north-east NSW and appears to follow a seasonal pattern between October and June, with a peak in December, January and February. 

While the aetiology (cause) is not well understood, it is likely to be a form of toxic myopathy.  

Birds may have various degrees of paralysis of their wings and legs, lose their notorious high pitch screech, and in severe cases be unable to swallow and blink. They are often found very dehydrated and skinny. For such beautiful and energetic birds, this is sad to see. 

Researchers are as yet unable to determine an exact cause yet but believe it may be related to a plant toxin the birds are feeding on.

At The Wildlife Hospital, we grade the severity of the clinical signs to help guide decision making and have developed a protocol to assist clinicians and carers when presented with or assessing suspected cases of LPS.