Chattering Lory
Lorius garrulus
Moluccas • Vocal & Vibrant
IUCN Status
Vulnerable
The Chattering Lory (Lorius garrulus) is a bold, beautiful, and highly vocal lorikeet from the Moluccan Islands. It features a brilliant scarlet-red body, deep green wings and thighs, and a striking yellow nape and tail band. Known for its loud, chattering calls (hence the name) and energetic personality, this species is one of the most popular and charismatic lories in aviculture. It is a dedicated nectar feeder that requires a specialized diet and plenty of space to remain happy and healthy.
General Description
| Common Name | Chattering Lory |
| Latin Name | Lorius garrulus |
| Family | Psittacidae • Lorikeets & Lories |
| Adult Size | 30–32 cm (12 in) |
| Weight | 180–220 g |
| Life Span | 20–35+ years in captivity |
| Sexual Maturity | 2–4 years |
| Clutch Size | 2 eggs |
| Gender Difference | No reliable visual sexual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger; DNA testing is recommended. |
| Natural Habitat | Lowland rainforests, forest edges, and coconut plantations. |
| Origin / Range | Moluccan Islands (Indonesia), primarily Halmahera, Bacan, Obi, and nearby islands. |
| Care Level | Intermediate to Advanced • Requires a specialized nectar diet and frequent feeding |
Lorius garrulus • Adult showing bright red body and green wings
VOCAL MOLUCCAN LORY • BOLD & BEAUTIFUL
Subspecies & Plumage
Three subspecies are recognised, differing mainly in the extent of yellow on the back and intensity of green on the wings:
| Subspecies | Main Range | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| L. g. garrulus (Nominate) | Halmahera and nearby islands | Most widespread. Bright red body with yellow band across the lower back and green wings. |
| L. g. morotaiensis | Morotai Island | Slightly smaller with more extensive yellow on the back. |
| L. g. flavopalliatus | Obi and Bacan Islands | Larger yellow patch on the back and slightly different shade of green on the wings. |
General Plumage Notes: The Chattering Lory is almost entirely brilliant scarlet-red with a broad yellow band across the lower back. The wings are deep green with blue flight feathers, and the tail is red with green tips. It has a black beak and bright orange-red eyes. Juveniles are duller with less yellow on the back.
Conservation Status:
Vulnerable (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Lorius Genus
Moluccas (Indonesia)
Vocal Red Lory