Lovebirds are one of the most popular pet parrot species, and for those who are familiar with them, it’s no surprise. Beautiful and intelligent, these little birds have been one of the most beloved types of African parrot for over 100 years.
However, there are a lot of myths out there about Lovebirds, their behavior, and what it’s like to keep them as pets. If you’re interested in learning more about what Lovebirds are like, then you should read on to discover basic facts about these feisty little birds.
Lovebirds Normally Don’t Talk.
Although they are a type of parrot, and they do have the ability to mimic human speech, Lovebirds are not among those species that most would consider talking birds.
This is because they very rarely decide to speak, and if they do choose to mimic a sound, more often than not they repeat simple noises such as whistles or household sounds such as doorbells and microwaves.
It is not known why some Lovebirds are more prone to mimicking speech than others, but it is widely believed that those who do learn to talk are taught from a very young age.
There Are Several Types of Lovebirds
There are many different types of Lovebirds. In fact, there are nine separate sub-species of these little parrots, each carrying their own distinct traits and characteristics.
These include the Masked Lovebird, the Black-Cheeked Lovebird, the Fischer’s Lovebird, The Nyasa Lovebird, the Swindern’s Lovebird, the Red-Faced Lovebird, the Abyssinian Lovebird, the Madagascar Lovebird, and the most popular, the beloved Peach-Faced Lovebird.
The Peach-Faced Lovebird can be identified by the rainbow of yellow, green, and blue on their bodies, and their bright peachy-pink faces.
While the different types of Lovebirds have differences in looks and temperament, on average, all of the Lovebirds will live for up to 20 years in captivity.
Lovebirds Are Not Always Best Kept in Pairs
It is a widely purported myth that you should never own a solitary Lovebird and that if they are not kept in pairs, they will die of depression. While it is true that they are extremely social birds who thrive on interaction and must be socially stimulated, in many cases, it is better for bird owners to keep single Lovebirds.
This is because these birds breed readily in captivity, and most bird owners are not capable of caring for an entire family of parrots.
It is also worth noting that birds kept in pairs tend to bond with each other and shun human interaction.
Those who would like their bird to be affectionate and open to being handled by human hands have found that it’s best to keep birds by themselves and devote as much time as possible to playing and socializing with them so that their needs are met.
Lovebirds Are One of the Smallest Parrot Species
While they are true parrots , Lovebirds are one of the smallest members of the parrot family.
On average, most Lovebirds fall between 5 and 7 inches in length at maturity, when measured from the beak to the end of the tailfeathers.
Their small size has worked to push their popularity among those who live in apartments and other small spaces.
Many of these bird lovers have found it easier to house and care for these little birds instead of attempting to keep a larger parrot species such as a Macaw or a Cockatoo.
Lovebirds Are Very Active
Like all parrots, Lovebirds are extremely active birds that need quite a bit of exercise to stay in top physical condition.
Those interested in adopting a Lovebird must be willing and prepared to give their feathered friend a bird-safe place to play outside of its cage for several hours per day.
will allow the bird to exercise all of the muscle groups that it needs to stay healthy, as well as provide important mental stimulation that these very intelligent animals need.
Remember , lovebirds are very active birds , they are extremely active birds.
A minimum of 32” x 20” x 20” (81 x 50 x 50 cm) per pair of birds is recommended with about four perches, feed and water dishes and an area for a bath. Place the cage on a stand or hang it from a wall bracket at eye level or at about 6’ off of the floor.
Be sure the spot you pick has good light and is well ventilated, though free from drafts.
It should be away from doors and windows where direct exposure to sunlight can make it overly warm, but placed close to at least one wall to enhance a feeling of security.
Average daytime temperatures can range from 60oF to 70oF with nighttime temperatures down to 40oF. As a rule of thumb, ambient temperature comfortable for you should be adequate for your bird.
Whether your bird is sick or healthy, be sure to watch for tell-tale signs of temperature-related discomfort: Cold birds will often remain fluffed up for extended periods of time, and overheated birds will hold their wings away from their bodies and pant.
The cage should be covered at night to prevent drafts and disturbances. Lovebirds like special resting places.
Nest boxes placed up high, all at the same level and all of the same type work well and help prevent fights. A nest box for a lovebird is 8″ x 8″ x 8″ (20 x 20 x 20 cm) or 10″ x 6″ x 6″ (25 x 15 x 15 cm). Be sure to check for eggs and remove them at once to prevent overpopulation. Remember, there are already so many homeless animals out there!
Problems
Signs of illness to be aware of are if a bird seems withdrawn, feathers are ruffled and the plumage is dull, sits with its eyes closed for long periods of time, eyes are watery or dull, runny nose, sleeps a lot, loses interest in its environment and stays at its feed dish.
The droppings may change color and be loose (if healthy they are grayish white and not too thin).
Also a lot of tail bobbing, dropping off its perch, odd breathing, sneezing, and excessive scratching.
Some of the common illnesses your lovebirds could contract are injuries from fighting, Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease, Polyoma Virus Infection, yeast infections (Candidiasis), Avian Pox Virus Infection, bacterial infections, internal parasites, mites, ticks, egg binding, intestinal influenza, coccidiosis, respiratory ailments, and diarrhea.
An ailing bird should be taken to an avian veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment immediately!