Yellow-backed Lories (Lorius garrulus flavopalliatus)

The Yellow-backed Lory (Lorius garrulus flavopalliatus aka Domicella garrulus flavopalliatus) – also known as Yellow-backed Chattering Lory — is endemic to the islands of Batjan and Obi (part of the Maluku group of islands).

This lory is endangered in its natural habitat due to habitat loss (Cites II).

Description

The Yellow-backed Lory is the same size as the nominate Chattering Red Lory, averaging 12″ (30cm) in length (including tail).

They also look very similar to the nominate form, except for the large yellow patch on the back (mantle). The flight feathers are also a slightly brighter green.

Personality

These are amongst the better talking lory species and perhaps one of the smartest at escaping or just being all around trouble makers. They have great personalities and are always up to mischief. Food and water bowls must be attached to the cage, and even then they will likely become toys!

They make a somewhat vocal pet. They produce a shrill, whistle-like call. Thankfully they don’t do it very frequently. Still quieter than an amazon. (Description by Dick Schroeder – Owner of Cuttlebone Plus and Expert Breeder / Keeper of Lories).

Lories as Pets or in Aviculture:

Due to their endangered status, any suitable specimen that cannot be released back into their natural habitat (native range) should preferably be placed into a well-managed breeding program to ensure the continued survival of this species.

Taxonomy:

Family: Loriidae … Genus: Scientific: Lorius … English: Greater Noble Parrot … Dutch: Breedstaartlori … German: Breitschwanzloris … French: Lorius

Species: Scientific: Lorius garrulus flavopalliatus aka Domicella garrulus flavopalliatus … English: Yellow-backed Lory … Dutch: Geelmantellori … German: Prachtgelbmantellori … French: Lori à dos jaune … CITES II – Endangered Species

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Other Relevant Web Resources

• Photos of the Different Lory Species for Identification … Listing of Species
• Distribution Maps of Lories and Lorikeets
• Lories and Lorikeets in Aviculture
• Feeding and Housing Your Lories and Lorikeets
• Diseases of Lories / Lorikeets and Health Care Program
• Special Challenges of Lories and Lorikeets: Training and Behavioral Guidance

Gaurav Dhir

Gaurav is an animal enthusiast. He lives in beautiful Ontario with his energetic family. As a part of his work at beautyofbirds.com, he has been working with ace parrot trainer, Cassie Malina to understand bird behavior and learn more about how he can train his feathered companions.