The yellow-bibbed lory is a species of parrot in the family Psittaculidae. It is endemic to the southern Solomon Islands.
Region
Southwest Pacific
Typical Environment
Occurs in the southern Solomon Islands, where it inhabits primary and secondary lowland forests, forest edges, and coastal woodland. It readily visits village gardens, coconut groves, and plantations when flowering trees are abundant. Birds forage mainly in the upper canopy but will descend to mid-levels when fruiting or flowering is concentrated. They can adapt to moderately disturbed habitats provided there are nectar sources and tall trees for nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This striking lory has a specialized brush-tipped tongue for feeding on nectar and pollen. It is highly active and vocal, often seen in pairs or small, noisy groups moving between flowering trees. In captivity it requires a nectar-based diet and meticulous hygiene, which makes it challenging to keep. Its vivid yellow chest bib is a key field mark among red-bodied lories in the Solomon Islands.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with strong, direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, noisy flocks that move between flowering trees. Pairs are monogamous and nest in natural tree cavities. Both parents typically share incubation and chick-rearing duties. They are conspicuous at feeding sites but retreat to canopy cover when resting.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud and piercing, dominated by harsh screeches and chattering calls. They also emit rapid contact calls while in flight and softer chatter when feeding.
Plumage
Mostly crimson with a conspicuous yellow bib on the upper chest, a dark (blackish) crown, green wings, and bluish to purplish on the belly and undertail.
Diet
Feeds primarily on nectar and pollen from flowering trees using its brush-tipped tongue. Also takes soft fruits such as figs and other native berries, and occasionally consumes seeds and small invertebrates. Diet composition shifts seasonally with flowering and fruiting availability. They often travel between known trees that are in bloom.
Preferred Environment
Forages high in the forest canopy and along forest edges where flowering trees are concentrated. Frequently visits cultivated areas and coconut groves, especially during peak bloom. Will exploit secondary growth if nectar sources are present.
