Black Lory
Description
The black lory (Chalcopsitta atra) also known as rajah lory or red-quilled lory is a medium-sized, blackish parrot with black bill, dark grey feet and long rounded tail. It has yellow and red under-tail. The sexes are similar.
The black lory is evaluated as Least Concern on IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It is listed on Appendix II of CITES.
The black lory is 32 cm (13 in) long and has a black bill. Its plumage is mostly black with a blue rump. Red markings on face, thighs, and tail vary between the three subspecies. Males and females are similar in external appearance.
Scientific Name
Chalcopsitta atra
Country Of Origin
Indonesia, Western New Guinea
Size
12 inches
Life Expectancy
15 to 25 years
Noise Level
Moderate; its shrill cries can be quite loud
Talk / Trick Ability
Very Good
Characteristics
Black lories are known for their playfulness; they consider everything a toy. They can be comical birds; some like to wrap themselves up in a blanket for sleeping. They can even be seen sleeping on their backs. Black lories are popular as pets because they are so entertaining. Because they are very active birds, they need as large a cage as possible with plenty of toys to keep them occupied; they enjoy toys that can be taken apart. Although they engage in soft, high-pitched warbles and chattering, they also have shrill calls that can bother nearby neighbors. Black lories can be demanding in care requirements — with daily baths and special diet preparations — but their affectionate, playful nature endears them to those who own them as pets.
Behavior / Health Concerns
Although black lories are often affectionate, they can exhibit aggressive behavior, including biting, if their territory and/or possessions are not respected. This behavior can be redirected positively by understanding the bird’s nature. Part of their diet should consist of good-quality nectar. Black lories have a tendency to squirt waste matter and, because their diets contain nectar, the liquid-like waste can make the surrounding area near the pet bird cage dirty. Easy-to-wipe surfaces near the cage, or aviary housing where they can fly and climb to their content and where waste can be easily washed off, are good housing options.