Lovebird family

Lovebird

What nicer name could a bird have than Lovebird? Unlike many other birds they have earned their name because of the long periods some of these birds sit together. There isn’t any one Lovebird species. Lovebird is the commonly used name for any of the nine species of the genus Agapornis. They are a social and affectionate small parrot. Eight species are native to the African continent; the Grey-headed Lovebird is native to Madagascar. The name Lovebird stems from these parrots’ strong, monogamous pair bonding and the long periods of time in which paired birds will spend sitting beside one another.

Lovebirds live in small flocks and eat mainly fruit, vegetables, some grasses, and seed. Some species of Lovebirds are among the most popular parrots kept as pets. Their average lifespan is 10 to 15 years.

Description

Lovebirds vary in size from about 13 to 17 centimeters in length (about 5.1 – 6.7 inches) and from about 40 to 60 grams (1.4 – 2.1 oz) in weight. They are among the smallest parrots in the world, and they are characterized by a stocky build, a short blunt tail, and a relatively large beak for their overall size. Wild-type lovebirds are mostly green with a variety of colors on their upper body depending on the species.

Species

The lovebird genus comprises nine species of which five are monotypic (a genus with a single species) and four are divided into subspecies. Eight of them are native in the mainland of Africa and the Madagascar Lovebird is native to Madagascar. In the wild, the different species are separated geographically.

Aviculture

Lovebirds have the potential to make great pets for those who have the patience and time required of any parrot species. Because of their inclination to bond, they can form great long-term relationships with people.

Provided with adequate space, a stimulating environment, and the proper nutrition a lovebird can become a cherished companion parrot. They love to snuggle and often preen their favorite people. Lovebirds make very good pets. They can be very interactive with humans, and when comfortable, will willingly perch on a finger or shoulders. Lovebirds rarely talk, but there is a chance they may learn to mimic human sounds if taught to at a young age.

Housing

Lovebirds require an appropriately sized cage or aviary. They require lots of toys such as willow branches, swings and other things to chew on and play with. Lack of toys and social stimulation may lead to boredom behavioral problems. Lovebirds are extremely social birds, and will enjoy several hours of interaction a day. They love to bathe and sun themselves daily.

Things to Consider

Lovebirds should be supervised when socializing with other species/genus (whether it be cat, dog, small mammal or other bird species). They should not be housed with other bird genus as they can be injured or pose a threat to the other bird.

Some Lovebirds make noise all day. When they are flying within a household, it is wise to watch them carefully and protect any furniture, electrical wiring or anything else that they could possibly chew on. Lovebirds are also very active, and love to chew things. In addition lovebirds are very vocal birds, making loud, high-pitched noises.