Red Lory
Eos bornea
Moluccas • Bright Red Beauty
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The Red Lory (Eos bornea) is one of the most vibrant and eye-catching lorikeets. Almost entirely brilliant scarlet-red with deep blue accents on the wings, tail, and flight feathers, this species is a true standout in any collection. Known for its bold, playful, and highly active personality, the Red Lory is a dedicated nectar feeder that brings constant movement and colour to the aviary. It is a favourite among lorikeet enthusiasts for its striking appearance and engaging character.
General Description
| Common Name | Red Lory |
| Latin Name | Eos bornea |
| Family | Psittacidae • Lorikeets & Lories |
| Adult Size | 28–31 cm (11–12 in) |
| Weight | 150–180 g |
| Life Span | 20–30+ years in captivity |
| Sexual Maturity | 2–3 years |
| Clutch Size | 2 eggs |
| Gender Difference | No reliable visual sexual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger; DNA testing is recommended. |
| Natural Habitat | Lowland rainforests, coconut plantations, and forest edges on the Moluccan Islands. |
| Origin / Range | Moluccan Islands (Indonesia), primarily Seram, Ambon, Buru, and nearby islands. |
| Care Level | Intermediate • Requires a specialized nectar-based diet and frequent feeding |
Eos bornea • Adult showing brilliant red plumage
MOLUCCAN RED LORY • VIBRANT & ENERGETIC
Subspecies & Plumage
Several subspecies are recognised, differing mainly in size and the intensity of red and blue coloration:
| Subspecies | Main Range | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| E. b. bornea (Nominate) | Seram and Ambon Islands | Largest and brightest form with deep scarlet-red plumage and strong blue on wings and tail. |
| E. b. cyanonothus | Buru Island | Slightly smaller with more pronounced blue on the wings. |
General Plumage Notes: The Red Lory is almost entirely brilliant scarlet-red with deep blue on the flight feathers, tail, and sometimes the lower back. It has a black beak and bright orange-red eyes. Juveniles are duller with less intense red and dark eyes.
Conservation Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Eos Genus
Moluccas (Indonesia)
Bright Red Lory