The black lory, is a medium-sized, blackish parrot with black bill, dark grey feet and long rounded tail. It has yellow and red under-tail. The sexes are similar. It is native to West Papua in Indonesia.
Region
New Guinea (West Papua, Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, and secondary growth across parts of West Papua. It frequents the canopy of flowering trees as well as coastal coconut groves and village gardens. The species adapts to disturbed habitats where nectar sources remain abundant. It is most often seen in small, noisy groups moving between feeding sites.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Black lories are specialized nectar feeders with brush-tipped tongues that let them lap up nectar and pollen from flowers. They are highly vocal and often noticed by their loud, screeching calls while flying between feeding trees. In captivity they require a strict nectar-based diet and meticulous hygiene, as their liquid diet can be messy.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Typically travels in pairs or small, noisy flocks and congregates at rich flowering trees. Nests in tree cavities, where the female incubates while the male helps feed. Pairs engage in mutual preening and maintain close contact calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are loud, harsh screeches and chattering notes, often given in flight. At feeding trees they produce rapid, excited chatter mixed with sharp contact calls.
