Lovebird

Genus Agapornis Nicknamed the pocket parrot

Small, colorful parrots from Africa known for their affectionate nature and playful energy. Lovebirds pack a lot of personality into a tiny body.

Watch the full video Read lovebird posts

Native to Africa Big personality

Size: About 15 cm 46–63 g (peach-faced)
Lifespan: 10–15 years Some live up to 20
Noise level: Very vocal High-pitched chirps
Talking ability: Rarely talks Chatters and whistles instead
Minimum cage: 20 inches Bars no wider than ½ inch

Know your lovebird

Lovebirds earned the nickname pocket parrots for their small size and affectionate nature.

Small bird, big personality

Lovebirds are social, active, curious, feisty and playful. In the wild they spend their days in small flocks, socializing, foraging and chattering.

No mate needed

Despite the name, a lovebird does not need a partner to be happy. A single bird can thrive with plenty of daily interaction and a strong bond with its owner.

They enjoy bath time

Lovebirds are not dusty like cockatiels, but they still benefit from regular baths and misting. Bathing keeps feathers clean and doubles as enrichment.

Species and colors

Most lovebirds have a colorful head or face. Shades range from peachy pink and teal blue to snowy white and leafy green.

Green

The most common color in the wild.

Peach-faced

The most popular pet lovebird, with the most color mutations.

Fischer's

Another popular lovebird kept as a pet.

Males vs females

Depends on the species

Abyssinian, Madagascar and red-faced lovebirds can be sexed by feather color. Peach-faced and Fischer's lovebirds look almost identical, so they need a DNA test.

Care basics

What a lovebird needs every day, taken from the full video.

Housing

At least 20 inches (51 cm) wide, tall and deep, with bars no wider than ½ inch (1.3 cm). Go bigger for a pair, and avoid round cages.

Perches and toys

Varied perches, chew toys and a foraging box. Natural fiber, palm leaf, soft wood and untreated leather work well. Swap toys every 2 to 3 weeks.

Time out of the cage

At least 4 hours of supervised time a day, split into sessions if needed. They are fast, curious and fearless, so never leave them alone.

Bird-proofing

Close doors and windows, cover mirrors, block small gaps, and remove toxic plants and cables before letting them out.

YouTube

Lovebird videos

All lovebird videos on YouTube

Full species video

Personality, telling males from females, colors, cage setup, bird-proofing and the downsides to know before getting one.

1Introduction
2Personality
3Males and females
4Colors
5Care
6Downsides
7Summary

Watch on YouTube

Is a lovebird right for you?

Lovebirds are bold, beautiful parrots with huge personalities in a tiny body. They are affectionate and playful, but they are not low-maintenance and need a home ready for their energy.

A good fit if

You have kept birds before, since lovebirds suit experienced owners better than beginners.
You can give at least 4 hours out of the cage and daily mental stimulation.
You can bird-proof your home and keep a steady supply of shredding toys.