The white-naped lory is a monotypic species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae.
Region
Cenderawasih Bay Islands, northern New Guinea
Typical Environment
Primarily inhabits lowland and hill rainforest, including secondary growth, forest edges, and coastal woodland. It frequently forages in the canopy at flowering and fruiting trees and can occur in village groves and coconut plantations. The species is tied to intact tree cover but shows some tolerance of lightly disturbed habitats. Its small island range makes it vulnerable to local pressures despite occurring in multiple habitat types.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The white-naped lory is a striking red parrot with a conspicuous white patch on the nape, found only on a small group of islands in Indonesia. Like other lories, it has a brush-tipped tongue adapted for sipping nectar and pollen. It is often noisy and conspicuous around flowering trees and may visit gardens and coconut plantations. Trapping and habitat loss have contributed to declines in parts of its limited range.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with fast, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small noisy groups, especially around flowering trees. Monogamous pairs nest in tree cavities, where the female lays a small clutch and both parents attend the young. Outside breeding, loose flocks may form to exploit seasonal food sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud, harsh screeches and chatters, often given in flight. At feeding sites it adds rapid, buzzy calls and squawks, creating a constant, lively chorus.
Plumage
Predominantly bright red with contrasting dark (blackish) flight feathers and deep blue to violet underparts; crisp white patch on the back of the neck.
Diet
Feeds mainly on nectar and pollen from a variety of flowering trees, using a brush-tipped tongue to extract nectar efficiently. Also consumes soft fruits, berries, and occasionally seeds. It may supplement its diet with cultivated fruits and coconut inflorescences near villages.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the canopy of rainforests and along forest edges, frequently visiting flowering and fruiting trees. It also uses gardens, plantations, and coastal groves when food is abundant.
