The Red Lory is a striking tropical parrot native to the rainforests of eastern Indonesia, most notably the Maluku Islands, and is instantly recognisable by its vivid red plumage contrasted with blue wings, a black bill and dark eye patch.
In the wild it inhabits lowland forest and forest edges, where it feeds mainly on nectar, pollen and soft fruits, often moving through the canopy in noisy, fast flying groups.
Highly social and intelligent, the Red Lory is known for its energetic behaviour and loud calls, traits that make it visually spectacular but also demanding in captivity. Habitat loss and trapping have affected some populations, making careful management and conservation important for the species’ long term future.
Photographed in Taronga Zoo, NSW