Distribution -
Indonesia

Description -
Weight: 30-300 gm
Size: Approximately 12 inches in length.
Distinct Markings: Overall plumage bright red, primaries black, secondaries tipped with black, wings red with blue on coverts. Tail reddish-black, underside dull red. Eye ring bluish-black, beak orange, cere and feet are dark blue-black.

Lories and Lorikeets are found in Australia, Indonesia and the South Pacific. Lories and Lorikeets are brilliantly colored, highly active and playful. They are distinguished from other parrots by their brush tongue, utilized for feeding on nectar and pollen. Their feces are more liquid than most parrots and are excreted in a projectile manner making them messy and often inappropriate for housing indoors. They thrive in outdoor aviaries. They can be housed in colonies however must be closely observed for signs of aggression.

Behavior/Aviculture -
Some lory species make good companion birds (Chattering and Red lories are probably the best) however most are better suited as aviary birds. They are often hyperactive, constantly chattering but not excessively loud and have poor talking ability.

Lories should always be provided with toys, items for chewing and branches from non-toxic trees. In order to ensure safety, companion birds should not be allowed unsupervised freedom in the home as they often encounter toxins or dangerous items. Young birds should be socialized to many people and exposed to a variety of situations such as new cages, toys, visits to the veterinarian, handling by friends, and wing and nail clippings to avoid fear of novel situations.

Routine bathing or showering is vital to maintaining good plumage and skin condition. Birds can be misted and allowed to dry in a warm room or in the sun, or dried with a blow drier. They enjoy bathing in a bowl or bird bath. They are good fliers so if kept as companion birds they should have a moderate number of wing feathers clipped to prevent flight. Clip only enough so the bird will glide to the floor.

All companion and breeding birds should be individually identified to assist in recovery if lost and assist in maintenance of medical and genealogical records. Many breeders apply closed leg bands when chicks are young. While they present a slight risk of entrapment closed bands are preferable to no identification, especially for breeding birds. Microchips which can be implanted into the muscle or under the skin are a reliable means of identification but require electronic readers to verify identification. Tattoos may be used but often fade or become illegible with time. Foot prints may have some application in identification.

Lory cages should be roomy and situated so that they can be easily cleaned (hosed out). Outdoor housing is preferred and frequent bathing is essential to maintaining good heath. Care must be taken that old food does not accumulate in the cage, on perches or in feeders. Several perches should be provided.

Life Span: Up to 15 years however very small species are delicate and typically not long lived
Age at maturity: 1-3 years

Diet -
Ideally lories should be fed a formulated (pelleted or extruded diet) as a basis for good nutrition. Many aviculturists make home made diets which should be analyzed for nutritional adequacy. The primary diet can be dry in many species, especially the larger species, which will help to keep the birds and caging clean, prevent contamination and spoilage and reduce disease problems associated with food spoilage. The diet should be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables daily to add variety and psychological enrichment. Many small species must be fed a nectar. Treats maybe given in small amounts especially as rewards for good behavior. Fresh clean water must be provided every day. Vitamin supplements are not needed for birds which are eating a formulated diet. Pretty Bird manufactures special dry diets for lories and lorikeets. For Conversion see our brochure on Converting your seed eating bird to a formulated diet.

Breeding Information -
Breeding lories requires special attention to diet and housing. Some species breed well in captivity. Breeding season and clutch size is variable according to the species. Nest Box and cage size is also variable according to the species.

Common Diseases And Disorders -
Liver disease
Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease
Fungal infections
Bacterial infections often associated with liquid foods
Parasites (Trichomonas)
Injuries
Food spoilage and contamination

Toxins: Many common health problems can be prevented by good diet, nutrition and routine health care. Routine veterinary examination (annually) can help you to keep your pet in excellent health and enhance your relationship with your bird

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