The collared lory is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to the islands of Fiji. It is the only Fijian rainforest bird to adapt to urban landscapes and can be found in urban Suva. Measuring 20 cm (7.9 in), it has bright red underparts and face with a purple crown and greenish upperparts. Males and females are similar in plumage, although the latter have a paler crown.
Region
Fiji Islands (Southwest Pacific)
Typical Environment
Occurs across the larger Fijian islands, including Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Kadavu, and parts of the Lau group. It inhabits lowland and montane rainforest, coastal woodland, secondary growth, plantations, and town gardens with flowering trees. The species readily visits coconut groves and ornamental plantings, especially during peak blossom periods. In urban areas it frequents parks and avenues where nectar sources are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This brightly colored lory is Fiji’s only rainforest bird that routinely ventures into cities, commonly seen in urban Suva. It feeds mainly on nectar and pollen using a brush-tipped tongue and is an important pollinator of native trees. Pairs are strongly bonded and often seen feeding and flying together. Despite its urban tolerance, it still relies on flowering trees and natural cavities for nesting.
Feeding on Heptapleurum actinophyllum
Feeding on Strongylodon macrobotrys
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy parties that move rapidly between flowering trees. Nests in natural tree cavities, with pairs maintaining close contact through mutual preening and soft calls. Breeding is timed to coincide with peak flowering, and they may defend rich nectar sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, metallic chattering and squeaky screeches delivered in quick bursts during flight. At feeding sites they give a mix of chatter, trills, and harsh notes, often escalating when competing for blossoms.
Plumage
Bright red face and underparts with green upperparts; crown a rich purple with a narrow dark collar separating crown from the red face. Wings and back are glossy green; tail green with darker tips. Sexes are similar, females tending to have a slightly paler crown.
Diet
Primarily nectar and pollen from flowering trees such as coconut, Erythrina, and other rainforest blossoms. Also takes soft fruits, buds, and occasionally small invertebrates. Uses a brush-tipped tongue to lap nectar efficiently and often gets dusted with pollen, aiding pollination. Forages rapidly, moving frequently between trees as bloom availability changes.
Preferred Environment
Typically feeds high in the forest canopy but readily descends to garden shrubs and roadside ornamentals. Common in coconut plantations and urban parks when flowers are abundant.
