Solving the Mystery of Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome
Rainbow Lorikeets are one of Australia’s most recognisable native birds — vibrant, vocal, and ecologically vital. As important pollinators and seed dispersers, they play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Yet for more than 15 years, increasing numbers of lorikeets across south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales have been affected by a devastating condition known as Lorikeet Paralysis Syndrome (LPS).
LPS is a seasonal disease that causes progressive paralysis, often leaving birds unable to perch, fly, or feed. It affects birds of all ages and sexes and places enormous strain on wildlife hospitals during peak seasons. Despite extensive investigation, the cause of LPS has remained elusive.
A Targeted Scientific Approach
Researchers at The University of Queensland, supported through the WIRES 2025 Pat Connors Avian Grant, are undertaking the most comprehensive toxicological investigation of LPS to date. Previous research has ruled out infectious diseases, pesticides, and alcohol exposure. Clinical and electrodiagnostic findings indicate that LPS is a neuromuscular junction disease, pointing strongly toward a toxic cause.
This project will focus on two naturally occurring compounds known to cause neuromuscular dysfunction:
Both toxins can cause paralysis without leaving obvious lesions, making them difficult to detect using traditional diagnostic methods.
Building Australia’s Diagnostic Capacity
Until now, large-scale toxicological testing for LPS has not been possible. Existing diagnostic methods for botulism are costly, slow, limited by sample size, and, in some cases, rely on live animal testing overseas — raising ethical and logistical challenges.
This project will change that. Using advanced mass spectrometry technologies (including MALDI-TOF and Orbitrap systems) at Biosecurity Queensland, researchers will test tissue samples from LPS cases and healthy controls without the need for live animal testing or international sample shipping. This work will significantly strengthen Australia’s capacity to diagnose and respond to wildlife disease.
Tracing Environmental Exposure
Understanding how birds are exposed to toxins is just as important as identifying the toxins themselves. Researchers will collect and test environmental samples — including fruit, flowers, insects, and arachnids — from known LPS “hotspots” during peak seasons. Tissue, gut contents, and feathers from birds will also be screened for ricinine and Ricinus communis DNA, helping to identify potential exposure pathways.
Beyond Lorikeets
Importantly, this research extends beyond Rainbow Lorikeets. LPS will serve as a model disease to investigate other unexplained avian paralysis syndromes, including Flying-fox Paralysis Syndrome (FFPS), Cockatoo Hindlimb Paralysis Syndrome (CHiPS), and paralysis affecting black swans. The findings will inform future investigations and improve responses to neurological disease across multiple species.
Engaging Communities and Wildlife Carers
The project also prioritises collaboration with wildlife hospitals, carers, and community partners, expanding surveillance networks and strengthening early detection. Researchers will assess non-invasive sampling techniques, such as feather testing, to support future monitoring of live birds — reducing stress on animals and carers alike.
Protecting Biodiversity Through Science
By definitively ruling in or out key toxic causes of LPS, this research aims to fast-track diagnosis, inform management strategies, and ultimately reduce the impact of paralysis syndromes on native wildlife. It represents a vital step toward protecting Australia’s biodiversity and ensuring that iconic species like the Rainbow Lorikeet continue to thrive.