Lovebird Care

Care Level: Beginner

 

Natural History: Originate from Africa, they have been kept as pets since the 1700s in England. Their name comes from their longterm monagomous relationship and for their behavior of sitting next to one another for long periods of time.

 

Age and Sexing: Can live 10-15 years. Only way to sex lovebirds is by bloodtest or egg laying.

 

Talking: Yes, they have clear and distinct speech.

 

How Many?: A single Lovebird will bond with its owner and a pair will bond with one another. The benefit of having a bonded pair, is if you are unable to give a single bird enough attention the other bird will be able to provide it for you. It is also enjoyable to watch the pair interact with each other. 

 

Cage Requirements: As large a cage as you can afford with adequately spaced bars so they can't get their heads through them and stuck. Keep out of direct sunlight and away from drafty areas. Multiple perches with varying sizes and textures should be put at various heights in the cage to keep their feet healthy. Cage should be completely cleaned at least every two weeks. (A lot of cleaning agents fumes are dangerous and potentially fatal to birds, do your research before using any chemical around your bird.)

 

Entertainment: Make sure to offer a variety of toys to your Lovebird and rotate them every week or two so they don't become bored. A bored bird can develop behavior problems. For a well bonded Lovebird you will want to give it at least 30 minutes of attention outside of its cage daily. Lovebirds are a large parrot in a little body and should be monitored if given toys designed for parakeets or other small birds.

 

Feeding: A varied diet is always beneficial for your Lovebird. A commericial pellet diet should have everything your Lovebird needs for a healthy life. Fruits and veggies can be offered as well. Cuttlebones should be offered for calcium and keeping the beak healthy. Spray millet can be given as a treat and kept in the cage as a toy that they will break apart and enjoy.

 

Watering: Always keep fresh and clean water readily available for your Lovebird. 

 

Bathing: It is important that your Lovebird can take a bath, it helps their skin and feather health. This can be accomplished by either offering a small bowl of water that your bird can easily get in and out of or by misting your bird with a spray bottle using room temperature water. Never use soap, never soak your bird, and never use a blow dryer to dry them. If necessary you may you paper towels to help dry them.