Encyclopedia of the Lories

Book excerpt: This title covers the biology, distribution and aviculture of every species of Lory Parrot. Lories are a group of colorful parrots from Australia, Indonesia and the Pacific region. Mainly nectar and pollen feeders, some species are nomadic, moving around in search of blossoms. Their bright colors and active, and often amusing behavior, make them fascinating subjects for study by bird watchers and bird keepers. Rosemary Low brings together, for the first time, detailed and absorbing information on their natural habits and aviculture. Rosemary has arranged this most comprehensive book to give immediate access to specific subjects and species. The first part is an encyclopedia covering nearly 100 different subjects from aviaries to conservation and from folklore to nest sites. In the second part, the biology of every species is described under standard headings which provide detailed descriptions of plumage, chicks, eggs, habitat, conservation, and more. A special gazetteer section includes distribution maps and information on localities where lories occur. The encyclopedia's large reference section is a valuable source of further reading - in the unlikely event there is anything else the reader needs to know. The book is a riot of color, with 140 color photographs of these stunningly beautiful birds. It will leave the reader wanting to know them in life.