Lovebirds

Lovebirds (Agapornis species) are small, colorful parrots (5-7 inches) native to Africa, known for their strong pair bonds and playful personalities. These energetic birds weigh 40-60g and live 10-15 years in captivity. While called “lovebirds” for their affectionate nature, they can be territorial and nippy if not properly socialized. Their diet should consist primarily of pellets with fresh vegetables and limited seeds. Lovebirds require plenty of toys and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors.

ESSENTIAL FACTS
Scientific NameAgapornis (9 species)
Size/Weight13-17 cm (5-7 in) | 40-60g
Lifespan10-15 years
Native HabitatAfrica, Madagascar
IDENTIFICATION
Common SpeciesPeach-faced, Fischer’s, Masked
ColorsGreen, blue, yellow, violet mutations
Sex DifferencesDNA testing needed for most species
DIET
Base Diet70% pellets, 20% vegetables, 10% fruits
Favorite FoodsKale, corn, apples, millet (treat)
AvoidAvocado, chocolate, salty foods
HOUSING
Cage SizeMinimum 24″W × 24″D × 24″H (pair)
Bar Spacing1/2″ maximum
Essential FeaturesNesting area, chew toys, multiple perches
BEHAVIOR
Social NeedsBest kept in pairs, need daily interaction
Noise LevelModerate (high-pitched chirps)
PlayfulnessVery active, need 4+ toys rotated weekly
lovebirds care guide and products

FOOD PORTIONS (PER BIRD)
Food TypeAmountFrequency
Pellets1.5-2 tablespoonsDaily (70% of diet)
Fresh Vegetables1 tablespoon choppedDaily (20% of diet)
Fruits1 teaspoon choppedDaily (10% of diet)
Seeds (Treat)1/4 teaspoon2-3x/week
Water30-60ml freshChanged 2x daily
CARE TIME PORTIONS
ActivityDurationFrequency
Out-of-Cage Time3-4 hoursDaily
Training/Socialization30 minutesDaily
Bathing10-15 minutes2-3x/week
Toy Rotation3-4 toysWeekly

🦜 Lovebird Care Schedule

Daily, weekly, and monthly care tasks

🌞 DAILY CARE
TaskDetailsPortion/Time
Fresh FoodPellets + chopped veggies1.5 tbsp pellets + 1 tbsp veggies
Water ChangeClean bowl with vinegar solution2x daily (AM/PM)
PlaytimeSupervised out-of-cage time3-4 hours total
TrainingStep-up commands, trick training15-30 minutes

📅 WEEKLY CARE
TaskDetailsFrequency
Full Cage CleanDisinfect trays, perches, bars1x week (Sunday)
BathingOffer shallow dish or mist spray2-3x week
Toy RotationSwap 3-4 toys to prevent boredom1x week
Weight CheckUse gram scale1x week

🗓️ MONTHLY CARE
TaskDetailsFrequency
Cage Deep CleanComplete disassembly and cleaning1x month
Perch ReplacementSwap worn natural wood perches1x month
Nail CheckTrim if needed (or provide abrasive perches)1x month
New Foraging ToysIntroduce 1-2 new challenge toys1x month

💡 Lovebird-Specific Tips

  • Pair Bonding: Monitor for aggression if keeping multiple birds
  • Chewing Needs: Provide 2-3 untreated wood blocks weekly
  • Egg Laying: Females may lay eggs – provide extra calcium
  • Sleep: Ensure 10-12 hours of darkness nightly