LOVEBIRDS

   Overview  

• Size: 4-7 inches, depending on the species.
• Traits: Active, inquisitive, may become nippy, and are good at escaping.
• Communication: Expressive chirps, squeaks, and peeps; no singing.
•  Interaction: Single lovebirds can make great pets, enjoying play and snuggling.

Caging:

• Size: Minimum 14″ wide x 16″ long x 18″ high.
• Bar spacing: No greater than 3/4″.
• Bottom grate recommended to prevent shredding cage paper.
• Use safe lining materials (black & white newspaper, brown paper bags, paper towels).
• Perches: Natural branches, cotton rope, or special cement perches; avoid sandpaper perch covers.
• Toys: Include swings, bells, beads, ropes, and vegetable-tanned leather; rotate to prevent boredom.

Diet:

• Balanced diet: Small hookbill seed mix, cockatiel or parakeet-sized pellets, fresh vegetables, some fruit, and grains.
• Fresh foods: Daily offering of fresh greens, vegetables, fruits, cooked rice, beans, pasta, unsweetened cereal, brown bread, and more.
• Vitamin supplementation: Sprinkle vitamin powder on fresh foods several times a week.
• Mineral block and cuttlebone for needed minerals.
• Fresh water always; avoid grit as it can cause blockages.

Health:

•  Robust birds, avoid drafts.
•  No tendencies toward obesity.
• Feather plucking may occur if frustrated and left cage-bound.

Noise:

• Distinctive high-pitched chirp, not excessively loud.
• Single lovebirds kept as pets are generally not too noisy.
•  Interaction reduces vocalization.

Sleep:

•  Require at least 10 hours of darkness and quiet for a good night’s sleep.
• Severe lack of sleep can lead to illness.

Sexual Behavior:

• Natural behaviors: Males may regurgitate; hens can become protective.
• Avoid providing nesting areas like Happy Huts and boxes.
• Cover the cage at night if hens become aggressive.

Bathing:

• Lovebirds enjoy baths; offer a dish of water or use a plant mister.
• Provide 2-3 baths per week, preferably in the morning.

Wing Clipping:

• Recommended for pet lovebirds in cages
•  Not painful, only trims the long flight feathers.
• Have an experienced person or vet clip both wings to avoid imbalance.

Basic Taming and Training:

• Play with the bird before placing it in its cage to promote bonding.
• Initially, the bird may be scared; gently pick it up and cuddle against your chest.
•  Gradually introduce stepping up onto your hand; use the command “Up.”
• Practice daily to keep the bird tame and controlled.