The dusky lory is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. Alternative common names are the white-rumped lory or the dusky-orange lory. It is found in New Guinea and the offshore islands of Batanta, Salawati and Yapen. They are also known as "banded lories" or "duskies".
Region
New Guinea and Raja Ampat Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout lowland and hill forests of New Guinea, including forest edges, secondary growth, mangroves, and village gardens. Frequently visits flowering trees in coastal plains and foothills and adapts well to disturbed habitats where nectar sources are abundant. Often gathers in flocks that roam widely following blooms. Also found on offshore islands such as Batanta, Salawati, and Yapen.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The dusky lory is a nectar- and fruit-feeding parrot with a brush-tipped tongue, often seen in noisy, fast-moving flocks. It has two main color morphs distinguished by either an orange or a yellow breast band, and shows a conspicuous white rump in flight. It is often called the white-rumped lory and is confined to New Guinea and nearby offshore islands. Though striking, it is demanding in captivity due to its liquid diet and messy feeding habits.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid wingbeats; agile canopy flier
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or noisy flocks, sometimes congregating at rich nectar sources. Forms strong pair bonds and nests in tree cavities, where both parents tend the young. Roosts communally and may travel daily between feeding and roosting sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, harsh screeches interspersed with chattering notes. Calls carry over long distances as flocks move between flowering trees.
Plumage
Overall sooty-brown to dusky plumage with a contrasting broad breast band (orange or yellow morphs) and a distinct white rump. Undertail and lower belly often show reddish or orange tones; wings and back appear dark and uniform.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar and pollen using a specialized brush-tipped tongue. Also consumes soft fruits such as figs and berries and occasionally takes sap or honeydew from insects on foliage. Will visit flowering trees in large numbers and exploit seasonal blooms across the landscape.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the forest canopy, along forest edges, and in secondary growth. Regularly visits village gardens and plantations where flowering and fruiting trees are available.
