Violet-necked Lory
Eos squamata
Moluccas • Elegant Violet Beauty
IUCN Status
Least Concern
The Violet-necked Lory (Eos squamata) is a stunning and graceful lorikeet native to the Moluccan Islands. It features a brilliant scarlet-red body with a distinctive violet-blue patch on the back of the neck and head, along with deep blue flight feathers and tail. Known for its elegant appearance, active nature, and relatively gentle temperament, the Violet-necked Lory is a favourite among lorikeet enthusiasts who appreciate its unique colour combination and lively personality.
General Description
| Common Name | Violet-necked Lory |
| Latin Name | Eos squamata |
| Family | Psittacidae • Lorikeets & Lories |
| Adult Size | 27–30 cm (10.5–12 in) |
| Weight | 140–180 g |
| Life Span | 20–30+ years in captivity |
| Sexual Maturity | 2–3 years |
| Clutch Size | 2 eggs |
| Gender Difference | Minimal visual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger; DNA testing is recommended. |
| Natural Habitat | Lowland rainforests, forest edges, coconut plantations, and mangroves. |
| Origin / Range | Moluccan Islands (Indonesia), including Halmahera, Bacan, Obi, and nearby islands. |
| Care Level | Intermediate • Requires a specialized nectar diet and frequent feeding |
Eos squamata • Adult showing red body and violet neck
MOLUCCAN VIOLET-NECKED LORY • ELEGANT & VIBRANT
Subspecies & Plumage
Two subspecies are recognised, differing mainly in size and the extent of violet on the neck and head:
| Subspecies | Main Range | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| E. s. squamata (Nominate) | Halmahera, Bacan, and Obi Islands | Larger with more extensive violet-blue on the neck and head. |
| E. s. riciniata | Morotai and Rau Islands | Slightly smaller with less intense violet coloration on the neck. |
General Plumage Notes: The Violet-necked Lory has a brilliant scarlet-red body with a distinctive violet-blue patch on the back of the neck and crown. The wings and tail show deep blue, and the beak is orange-red. This elegant colour combination makes it one of the most beautiful lories. Juveniles are duller with less violet on the neck.
Conservation Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix II
Eos Genus
Moluccas (Indonesia)
Violet-necked Lory