The cardinal lory is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. The cardinal lory lives mainly in the mangrove and the lowland forests of the Solomon Islands, Bougainville Island and easternmost islands of the Bismarck Archipelago. It was previously placed in the genus Chalcopsitta.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Melanesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs on the Solomon Islands, Bougainville, and some of the easternmost islands of the Bismarck Archipelago. It favors coastal and lowland areas with abundant flowering trees, including mangroves, riverine forest, and secondary growth. The species readily uses human-modified habitats such as gardens, coconut groves, and plantations where nectar sources are plentiful. It is generally absent from high montane forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This striking red lory is native to the Solomon Islands region and nearby islands of Papua New Guinea. Like other lories, it has a brush-tipped tongue adapted for feeding on nectar and pollen. It often visits flowering trees in villages and plantations, making it one of the more frequently seen parrots in its range. It was formerly placed in the genus Chalcopsitta.
At Loro Parque, Spain
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with strong, direct flight
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small, noisy groups; larger flocks may gather at rich food sources. It nests in tree cavities, including palms and old hardwoods. Pairs are typically monogamous and show strong site fidelity to feeding and roosting areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, ringing screeches and chattering calls, frequently given in flight. At feeding sites it produces rapid, high-pitched chatter interspersed with harsher squawks.
