Lovebirds are lively, inquisitive parrots that are native to Africa . Commonly kept species include Peach-faced Lovebirds, Masked Lovebirds and Fischer’s Lovebirds. Within each of these species there are many mutations available. Lovebirds can live to their mid-teens.

Housing and husbandry
Lovebirds can be kept in a large cage or aviary,

* Perches should be natural wood of varied diameters. Place at opposite ends of the cage to encourage flight. Avoid sandpaper on perches or cage bottom.
* Place feed and water dishes so that your bird will not contaminate them with droppings.
* Native Australian tree branches, gum nuts, grasses & greenery should be put into the cage for behavioural enrichment & beak care. Change regularly.
* Lovebirds enjoy a variety of toys. See our in clinic display and model cage to select suitable ones. We recommend changing toys regularly.
* Remember that birds fly horizontally like airplanes rather than vertically like helicopters. It is more important for their cages to be long and wide rather than tall. Place toys on the sides of the cage and do not clutter their flying area.

Diet
* Feed a combination of formulated small parrot or crumble , some seeds and dark green vegetables every day .
* Dark leafy greens include spinach, silver beet, grated carrots, beans, peas, broccoli, seeding grasses, etc.
* Fruit may also be offered, as can multi-grain bread, pasta, chicken bones or other meat or chopped hard-boiled egg
* Low fat low sugar human foods like oats, bread, pasta, wheat-bix etc is also good..
* Avoid chocolate, caffeine, alcohol or avocado as these may be toxic.

Common illnesses (see separate articles)
* Feather picking and feather mutilation especially over the shoulders.
* Megabacteria or Avian gastric yeast infections
* Beak and Feather Disease
* Bacterial infections.
* Injuries from ‘domestic violence’, the name ‘lovebird’ can be a misnomer!

Health Care
* We recommend a health check (with testing as appropriate), when you acquire your new lovebird and each year thereafter, to ensure health and prevent common illnesses.

Birds often hide signs of illness and may only appear unwell when they are very sick. It is important to seek advice early if your bird looks unwell. .