How to look after Lovebirds ( A Complete Guide)

Last Updated on November 7, 2023 by Ali Shahid

When it comes to lovebirds, they are like a burst of sunshine in your life – their bubbly personalities will keep you endlessly entertained. I remember the day I first welcomed these vibrant little creatures into my home.

Their small size and easy maintenance instantly won me over, making them a popular choice among pet enthusiasts. What’s even more fascinating is that they tend to outlive many other bird species, adding more joy to the journey of companionship.

Now, let me take you on a journey through the art of caring for lovebirds, sharing my experiences and insights on how to ensure their well-being. It’s not just about providing a safe and secure home, feeding them with the right pellets, or giving them fresh water; it’s about creating a world of happiness for these charming feathered friends.

So, let’s delve into the heart of lovebird care, where every chirp and flutter is a note in a delightful symphony of avian affection.

How to look after Lovebirds

Make sure you clear these things first before buying a lovebird:

• Is there a safe space where this lovebird can stay?
• Can you assure him that he will always have a home? Most lovebird pairs last 10 or 20 years together. Could you afford to take care of this bird financially? It is a good thing that lovebirds have modest associated costs, but housing and seed will still be required as well.
• Is there time for you to play, sing, and talk to this bird?
• Are any of our neighbors or family members going to be disturbed by this songbird’s noise? A lovebird usually isn’t a problem for most families. Living with one isn’t difficult.
• When this bird lives in our household, who will take care of it?

The Five Most Important Lovebirds Welfare Needs

To keep your lovebirds healthy and long-lived, be sure to complete these requirements.

1. Environment

A lovebird requires adequate housing that includes a safe, comfortable environment for resting exercising, and shelter that is suited to their size.  

2. Diet

The correct type and amount of food should be offered to lovebirds, along with access to clean, fresh water to meet all their nutritional needs.  

3. Behavior

There should be no such restrictions on the behavior of Lovebirds, and they should be able to demonstrate normal behavior if given the opportunity.  

4. Company

While some Lovebirds prefer to be alone, others need the company of their kind.  

5. Health

Lovebirds must receive veterinary care in case they become ill or injured, and they should be kept away from pain, suffering, and injury.

General Care for Lovebirds

Feathers Care

Spraying with a fine mist can be done using a special solution. There are local pet stores that can advise you about which solution or spray is best for your lovebird. There are plenty of lovebirds who enjoy a bath, so it is important to give them one regularly.

Wet droppings

A change in diet, an excess of moldy or contaminated food, or an underlying illness may result in this condition. Keep your bird well-hydrated at all times, and consult your veterinarian.  

Eliminates Mites

Birds develop itching, weight loss, and feather loss from this parasite, which feeds on their blood. A veterinarian or pet store can advise you on using the appropriate spray for destroying a nest of mice.

Beaks and nails Care

Use iodine blocks on your birds’ beaks to keep them trimmed. Seek professional advice if the beaks or nails of your lovebirds are excessively long.

Feather plucking

Having a poor diet, being inactive, or not being stimulated can contribute to this. Provide your lovebirds with exercise and entertainment toys and spend time with them. In the event of persistent symptoms, consult your veterinarian.

Colds

A bird suffering from a cold will appear weak, its feathers will stand up, and it may sneeze. Give him a lot of warmth, do not bathe him, and contact a veterinarian immediately. A visit to your veterinarian may be needed if you are concerned about your lovebirds’ health.

Lovebird Food Care

There are many diet choices for lovebirds, including pelleted diets, seeds-only diets, and a mixture that contains both. As with any diet, feeding only seeds or only formulated diets has pros and cons.

Formulated Diet

The nutrition of blended diets is high, so vitamins don’t need to be added. Although it lacks the phytonutrients normally present in fruits, vegetables, grains, and seeds. In addition to boosting the immune system, phytonutrients are believed to assist the body in healing itself and preventing some diseases. It is also possible for lovebirds to get bored by a formulated diet.

Seed Diet

 Supplements of vitamin D, calcium, and iron are necessary with a seed-only diet. Psychological enrichment is as important as meeting nutritional requirements for lovebirds, which can be met by a variety of seeds. Each lovebird will consume approximately 1.5-2 ounces of feed per day (45-60 grams).

Small lovebirds are usually fed a balanced diet that includes a range of supplements and vitamins. It is also considered suitable to eat such a diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and greens without adding excessive vitamins.

Water

The lovebirds will need a lot of water to drink every day, as they drink a lot of water.

Housing Care for Lovebirds

As a seasoned lovebird owner, I’d like to share my insights on creating a comfortable home for these lively little companions. Lovebirds are known for their high energy levels, so it’s vital to set up a cage that caters to their needs.

First and foremost, ample space is crucial. I’ve found that a cage measuring at least 32 inches in length, 20 inches in width, and 20 inches in height is ideal for a loving pair of lovebirds. Inside the cage, I provide four perches to keep them active and engaged. Additionally, I make sure they have access to food and water dishes, as well as a designated spot for their daily baths.

When it comes to cage placement, I’ve learned that hanging it from a wall bracket or situating it on a stand at about eye level or approximately 6 feet off the floor works well. This height offers our lovebirds a sense of security and allows them to be a part of our daily lives.

A well-lit and well-ventilated area is essential, but I’m careful to avoid exposing the cage to drafts. Placing it away from doors and windows, where direct sunlight can make it too warm, is a wise move.

Maintaining the right temperature is crucial. Lovebirds thrive in an environment where daytime temperatures range from 60°F to 70°F, and nighttime temperatures may drop to around 40°F. I’ve found that if the room temperature is comfortable for me, it’s likely comfortable for my birds.

I keep a watchful eye on their behavior, as cold lovebirds tend to stay fluffed up for extended periods, while overheated ones might hold their wings away from their bodies and pant. To ensure their well-being, I make it a practice to cover their cage at night, preventing drafts and disturbances.

Our lovebirds also enjoy having their special resting places. I’ve provided nest boxes placed up high, all at the same level and consistent in size, to avoid any conflicts. The recommended nest box dimensions are either 8 inches by 8 inches by 8 inches or 10 inches by 6 inches by 6 inches.

It’s important to regularly check for eggs and remove them promptly to prevent overpopulation. We all know there are already countless homeless animals out there in need of love and care.

Breeding Care for Lovebirds

Having spent years caring for my beloved lovebirds, I’d like to share some insights on the important matter of breeding and housing. When it comes to breeding, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you prefer a colony setup or individual pairs. Each has its merits, but if you choose a colony, be ready to provide multiple nests to prevent territorial disputes among the birds.

Breeding a single pair is a more straightforward approach. You can transfer your lovebirds from their regular cage to a specially designed darkened birdhouse with a door that can be opened and closed. Keep in mind that, typically, the female lovebird is slightly taller and has a larger pelvis designed to accommodate the egg-laying process. After mating with the male, it’s the female’s role to diligently incubate the eggs.

To ensure a successful breeding experience, I’ve found it vital to maintain a well-balanced and nutritious diet for the female. On average, she’ll lay around four to five eggs per clutch, and the incubation period spans 23 days. During this period, it’s crucial to minimize disturbances in the hatching area, allowing the mother to nurture her brood in peace.

Once the chicks hatch, it’s time for gentle handling and minimal contact. Both parents, those of the same sex as the chick, share the responsibility of feeding for about a month. After this period, the young lovebirds are ready to explore the world. Some may be mature enough to leave the nest at approximately 8 weeks of age.

It’s heartwarming to see them return to their family’s abode each night. However, as soon as they start feeding independently, I’ve learned it’s best to house them in separate cages. Lovebirds, despite their name, can exhibit aggression towards their own offspring if kept together for too long. It’s all part of the remarkable journey of lovebird parenthood, and it’s a joy to be a part of it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it good to keep love birds at home?

The presence of a lovebird in a home is regarded as a sign of good health and affection between the residents. Keep your lovebirds facing the north.

Are lovebirds hard to take care of?

Lovebirds are a suitable choice for newcomers to the world of pet birds, although they demand a little extra care compared to some other bird types. It’s advisable to keep them in pairs because they need a lot of love and attention.

Do lovebirds need sunlight?

The best environment for lovebirds is a natural one. The lovebirds should be kept in moderate sunlight with moderate temperatures rather than in direct sunlight. The amount of light they need will depend on their health.

Should I cover my birdcage at night?

Birds will generally be fine without being covered at night if given a dark, quiet, and somewhat secluded place to sleep. Birds need to sleep, however. It is best to play it safe and cover the cage again at night if you are not sure how your pet will react if its cage is exposed.

Conclusion

It is important to take good care of your new lovebird if you decide to adopt one. There is more to it than a balanced diet; it also involves taking care of their enjoyment, grooming and breeding. Owners need to devote some time to them regularly.

The most important thing to remember is to be patient and to get used to your home. Excessive force can lead to health problems. Hopefully, you can take care of lovebirds properly if you use all of our caring tips.