Collared lory

The Collared Lory: A Jewel of the Fijian Islands

The collared lory, scientifically known as Vini solitaria, is a captivating parrot species exclusively found in the Fiji Islands. This bird is notable for its remarkable adaptability, thriving not only in its natural subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests but also within urban environments, including the city of Suva. Measuring approximately 20 cm in length, the collared lory is adorned with vibrant plumage, featuring bright scarlet cheeks, throat, breast, and upper abdomen, contrasted by a deep purple crown and greenish wings, back, and tail.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

First described in 1800, the collared lory was later placed in the genus Phigys before being moved to the genus Vini based on molecular phylogenetic studies. Its Fijian name is 'kula,' and historically, these birds and their feathers were highly prized throughout western Polynesia. Maritime trading networks were established between Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga, centered on the 'kula' feathers, which persisted until colonial times. Other common names for this species include Fiji lory, ruffled lory, and solitary lory, though the latter is a misnomer as the species is known to be social.

Description and Dimorphism

Adult collared lories exhibit slight sexual dimorphism. Males display vivid scarlet on their cheeks, throat, breast, and upper abdomen, with a dark purple crown and lime green nape and upperparts. The wings, back, and tail are predominantly greenish, while the lower abdomen is purple. The bill is a striking yellow-orange, the feet are pink-orange, and the irises are orange-red. Females share a similar appearance but have a paler crown with a greenish hue posteriorly. Juveniles are duller, with less distinct markings and a brown beak with pale brown irises.

Distribution and Habitat

Naturally, the collared lory inhabits subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests across Fiji's larger islands and the Lau Islands. Its presence in urban areas, particularly Suva, highlights its capacity to adjust to human-modified landscapes. Fossil evidence suggests that the species once occurred in Tonga but was extirpated by early human settlers.

Behavior and Diet

Collared lories are fast, straight flyers with quick, shallow wingbeats. They are typically observed in pairs or small groups, demonstrating their social nature. Their call is a high-pitched single or double shriek. Their diet is varied, consisting of fruit, seeds, nectar, and blossoms. They show a preference for trees such as Erythrina variegata (drala), the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera), and the introduced African tulip tree (Spathodea campanulata).

Breeding and Aviculture

Nesting occurs in hollows within trees or in holes found in rotting coconuts still attached to their trees. In captivity, a clutch typically consists of two eggs, with incubation lasting around 30 days. The nestling period, from hatching to fledging, extends to about nine weeks. The collared lory has been bred in captivity, with early exhibitions in London and Taronga Zoos in the 1940s. While early attempts to keep the species alive proved challenging, it readily became tame in captivity.