The Fascinating World of Lories and Lorikeets

Bright, energetic, and full of personality, lories and lorikeets are among the most fascinating members of the parrot family. With over 50 species spread across Australasia, these vibrant birds are known not just for their striking plumage, but for their specialized feeding adaptations and lively, social behavior.

Social, Smart, and Stunning

Lories and lorikeets are highly social birds. They are often seen in large, squawking flocks, chattering excitedly as they flit from tree to tree in search of nectar. Agile and playful, they use their strong beaks and four-toed feet to climb, swing, and even hang upside down while feeding. Many species form monogamous pair bonds and are often seen grooming each other during rest periods, which maintains their plumage and strengthens their social bonds. 

What's the Difference Between a Lory and a Lorikeet?

They may resemble other parrots at a glance, but their most distinguishing feature lies inside their beaks.
Although the terms are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between these two types of birds:
•    Lories are typically larger, with short, square, or rounded tails.
•    Lorikeets tend to be smaller, sporting long, pointed tails.

A Tongue Like No Other

Lories and lorikeets have brush-tipped tongues that are genuinely unique, earning these birds the nickname “Brush-Tongued Parrots.” Their tongues are lined with tiny, hair-like projections called papillae, which stand upright when feeding. This allows them to lap up nectar and pollen from flowers efficiently. Their narrow, hooked beaks are also ideal for reaching deep into blossoms and soft fruit, making them expert foragers in their natural habitat.

Diet and Daily Life

Unlike most parrots that consume primarily nuts and seeds, lories and lorikeets thrive on a nectar-based diet that includes pollen, flowers, and soft fruits. Because of this diet, they have a weaker gizzard and crop, but they more than make up for it with their boundless energy.

Feeding Pet Lories & Lorikeets

In captivity, lories and lorikeets should be fed a complete, balanced diet specifically formulated for their unique nutritional needs—typically a nectar- or pellet-based food designed for brush-tongued parrots. To enrich their diet and support overall health, you can supplement with fresh fruits and vegetables such as pears, bananas, apples, berries, papaya, carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, broccoli, peas, and kale. Cooked legumes like chickpeas, lentils, and beans are also beneficial.

Scenic Lory Food: A Superior Alternative to Liquid Nectar Solutions

Historically, Liquid Nectar Solution (LNS) diets have been included in captive feeding programs. However, these LNS diets differ significantly from the natural foods consumed by free-ranging lories and lorikeets, primarily due to their high moisture content and resulting nutrient dilution. Excessive intake of LNS diets often leads to high-moisture feces, which can contribute to environmental contamination and increase the risk of spreading pathogenic organisms.

To meet the unique dietary needs of lories and lorikeets, Scenic Lory Pellets and Lory Powder provide a complete and nutritionally balanced formula. These products offer a highly effective alternative to traditional Liquid Nectar Solutions (LNS), addressing common challenges associated with nectar-based diets in captivity. Incorporating Scenic Lory Pellets and Dry Lory Powder Food into your feeding program offers several key benefits:

1.    Nutrient-Dense, Low-Moisture Formula
With reduced moisture content, Scenic Lory Food delivers a more concentrated, nutrient-rich diet. This encourages natural foraging behaviors, such as pollen collection, and supports overall bird health.
2.    Improved Hygiene and Food Safety
Eliminating liquid nectar significantly decreases the growth of food-borne bacteria and yeast. This reduces the risk of microbial contamination, enhancing both food safety and the health of your birds.
3.    Time-Saving and Efficient Feeding
Scenic Lory Food can be fed just once daily, streamlining feeding routines. This reduces labor and cleanup time compared to the frequent feedings and sanitation required with LNS.