Lovebird 101

Lovebirds do equally well living alone or with their own lovebird friend. Your veterinarian should see your new lovebird for a check-up sometime within the first week of adoption. It is strongly recommended that you acquire a recently published book on lovebirds to learn all you can about your new little friend!  

HOUSING

Minimum cage size for a single lovebird is a wire cage 30 x 30 x 18. Bar spacing should not be more than ¾ of an inch apart. Lovebirds are active and need toys to keep them entertained. Cockatiel sized toys are most appropriate for your lovebird. Toys made for parakeets are often too small and flimsy for the industrious beak of the lovebird. You will soon find which toys your lovebird prefers to play with, including favorite colors and material types after spending some time with them. Perches of varied diameter work best (3/8 to 3/4 inches). The surface should be slightly irregular so it is easier to grip. Do not use sandpaper perch covers.  

It is important to keep the cage and accessories clean. Cage paper should be changed daily, and food and water bowls should be washed every day. Cages should be disinfected at least once every two weeks.

Placement of the cage should be well thought out.  It should be in a quiet part of an active room (like the family room) so your lovebird knows it is part of the flock, but also feels safe at the same time.  It is best to cover the cage at night.  

All birds have sensitive respiratory systems.  They breathe the same air at least twice. They should not be exposed to smoke, room deodorizers, scented candles, or any noticeable fumes. Teflon and other non-stick polymers will break down if overheated and create toxic fumes that can kill birds anywhere in your home.

DIET

You can choose between a seed base or pellet base diet for your lovebird.   Whatever you choose, it is vital that fresh fruits and veggies be part of that daily diet.   Apples, blueberries, blackberries, broccoli, cabbage, kale, carrots, parsley, and spinach seem to be favorites of lovebirds. It is important that all fruits and veggies are washed to remove any pesticides or chemicals.   Chopping the mix into small bits will make it easier for the birds to eat, plus you can refrigerate the extra in an airtight container for use during the rest of the week.  

GROOMING

Lovebirds like to bathe frequently. They will bathe in their water dishes if they are able. Use a shallow dish with ¼ inch of room temperature water in it 3 or more times a week for bath time. Some like to be misted with lukewarm water, some do not. Regular bathing helps keep their feathers in good condition.  

BEHAVIOR

Lovebirds are very social, just like other parrots. They will need lots of time spent interacting with you on a daily basis. Some lovebirds talk, some do not. They are noisy and what you will hear often is a variety of chirps, cheeps, peeps and squeaks. Lovebirds can be trained to do tricks and are very active.

SIGNS OF ILLNESS

Changes in behavior, ruffled feathers are ruffled, sits with eyes closed, watery or dull eyes, runny nose, sleeps a lot, tail bobbing, excessive scratching, sneezing or odd breathing. Any change in droppings could indicate a trip to the vet is needed.  

Contact the Oregon Humane Society free Behavior Helpline (email, 503-416-2983).