Olfactory discrimination in Yellow-backed Chattering Lories Lorius garrulus flavopalliatus: first demonstration of olfaction in Psittaciformes

The olfactory systems of birds resemble those of amphibians, reptiles and mammals (for reviews see Kare & Mason 1986, Wenzel 1987) but the importance of olfaction in the daily lives of birds remains a matter of controversy (Roper 1999). Nevertheless, there is now good behavioural evidence of olfactory capability in birds of a variety of species and of its use in several different functional contexts including orientation, foraging and reproduction (Jones & Roper 1997, Roper 1999). Thus, it seems increasingly likely that some degree of olfactory sensitivity is widespread in birds. The present study tests ability to discriminate odour cues in two captive Yellow-backed Chattering Lories Lorius garrulus flavopalliatus. I chose this species because it feeds on nectar, flowers and fruit and so may use olfaction for foraging purposes. This is the first behavioural investigation of olfactory capability in any parrot species.