Red-and-blue Lories: Rehabilitation and Release
Pusat Informasi Sampiri (PIS), care staff and vets from Tasikoki Wildlife Rescue Centre (Tasikoki WRC), North Sulawesi Provincial Department for Conservation of Natural Resources (BKSDA), Marine and Local Police, and other law enforcement.
Trafficking for the wild bird trade has severely affected Red-and-blue Lory (Eos histrio) populations. The WPT supports the release and reintroduction of Red-and-blue Lories from in-country partner Tasikoki Wildlife Rescue Centre (Tasikoki WRC), with the backing of the North Sulawesi Provincial Department for Conservation of Natural Resources (BKSDA). The aim is to release birds caught in trade to lay the groundwork for the species’ resurgence on islands where it has gone extinct. The WPT will train staff at the centre on appropriate release management, disease testing and health and body condition assessments for the birds. The soft release process allows the birds to habituate to their surroundings before release. While under Tasikoki’s care, they are also being acclimatised to artificial nests to increase their chances of successfully breeding post-release.
IUCN/CITES Status: Endangered / Appendix I
Population: 5500–14,000 mature individuals; nominate of species possibly extinct on Sangihe Is. Decreasing.
Threats: This species has a restricted range. Habitat loss and illegal overexploitation for trade have caused serious declines. Insecticide use and disease transmission via escaped cage birds to wild populations are potential hazards.
Range: Native to Sangihe, Talaud and Nanusa Islands, Indonesia.
Natural history:
Red-and-blue Lories are found in forest and cultivated areas up to 1250 m (4100 ft). Their diet includes coconut, and the fruit and nectar of various trees. Insects are also taken. They are most commonly seen flying in groups of up to 8 birds. Large, very vocal numbers gather together to roost.
