© kathy blohm / CC BY 2.0Violet-necked Lory
The Violet-necked Lory is an Indonesian lory prized for its striking red-and-blue plumage, growing to about 27 cm in length. Its orange-yellow bill and the blue collar around its neck—whose extent varies by subspecies—give it a distinctive look. Like other lories, it's curious, playful, and tends to bond closely with people. Because lories feed primarily on nectar and pollen in the wild, they need a specialized liquid nectar diet rather than a standard seed mix, setting their care apart from most parrots. This species is generally considered suited to intermediate-level keepers, so some prior experience helps.
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Violet-necked Lory key facts
- Care level
- Intermediate
- Lifespan
- 20-25 years
- Size
- About 27cm
- Diet
- Lory nectar, specialist lory pellets, fruit and pollen
- Cage
- Use a cage wide enough to place perches horizontally, and add washable wall protection because the liquid droppings carry.
- Temperament
- Active and strongly gregarious. A solitary bird needs plenty of time with its keeper as a playmate.
- Vocalization
- Like other lories the voice is high and sharp, so in an apartment the room placement needs thought.
- Notes
- It feeds mainly on pollen and nectar, so a seed-based diet will not do. Nectar spoils quickly and must be replaced at least twice a day.
About Violet-necked Lory
Learn about the Violet-necked Lory, a striking 27cm Indonesian lory known for its nectar-based diet and playful personality. An intermediate-level parrot species requiring specialized care.
7 things to know before welcoming a Violet-necked Lory
1A Nectar-Based Diet
In the wild, this lory feeds mainly on nectar and pollen, so standard seed-based parrot food isn't suitable. Plan to feed a commercial nectar formula (mixed into a liquid diet) as the dietary staple.
2Manage Liquid Droppings
Because of its nectar-based diet, droppings tend to be runnier than those of seed-eating parrots, which can make the area around the cage messier. Setting up an easy-to-clean cage layout with protective liners in advance helps a lot.
3Curious and Playful Nature
This bird is highly curious and stays active, enjoying stimulation through play. Rotating toys regularly helps keep it engaged.
4Bonds Closely with People
Among lories, this species tends to bond especially well with its owner and enjoys interaction. Because of this, it does best in a home that can offer consistent daily attention.
5Collar Color Varies by Subspecies
The extent of the blue collar around the neck differs between subspecies. This is a natural variation, not a sign of a health issue.
6Intermediate-Level Care
This species is generally considered suited to intermediate keepers, so prior parrot-keeping experience makes things easier. First-time owners should research thoroughly before bringing one home.
7Prepare Your Setup in Advance
Because of its nectar diet, you'll need feeding supplies and a cage layout suited to easy cleanup — different from what a typical seed-eating parrot requires. It's worth getting the full setup ready before your bird arrives.
Frequently asked questions about Violet-necked Lory
- Q.Is the Violet-necked Lory suitable for beginners?
- A.This species is generally considered suited to intermediate keepers, so prior parrot experience helps. Since it requires specialized care like a nectar-based diet, first-time owners should research thoroughly before bringing one home.
- Q.What should I feed a Violet-necked Lory?
- A.In the wild, it feeds mainly on nectar and pollen, so a specialized nectar formula should be the core of its diet. Standard seed-based parrot food alone may not provide balanced nutrition.
- Q.Does the blue collar marking vary between individuals?
- A.Yes, the extent of the blue collar around the neck differs by subspecies. This variation in appearance is natural.
- Q.Is the Violet-necked Lory listed under CITES?
- A.Violet-necked Lory is listed in CITES Appendix II. International trade requires a permit from the exporting country, but as far as CITES is concerned, no registration is needed to buy or sell individuals already legally in Japan.
- Q.What should I prepare before bringing one home?
- A.You'll want feeding supplies suited to a nectar-based diet, along with a cage setup that's easy to wipe down and clean. These needs differ somewhat from a typical seed-eating parrot, so it helps to have everything ready before your bird arrives.
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