Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Love Birds: Monogamous Creatures Of The Bird Kingdom

Love Birds: Monogamous Creatures Of The Bird Kingdom 


Have you and your other half ever been termed as Lovebirds? If you didn't already know, this term is widely used as a descriptive word to mean, a lovey-dovey couple. Lovebird is also the name to a popular choice of pet Bird, and we are going to reveal how and why you should proudly accept that term— as opposed to being embarrassed about it. ☺


The Lovebird


There are a total of 9 species, namely categorized via plumage, and region of origin. 8 species of the Lovebird originate from Africa, and 1 specifically from Madagascar. In Singapore and other countries, the 3 common species of Lovebirds favoured as pets would be the Peach or Rosy-Faced Lovebird, Masked Lovebird, and Fischer’s Lovebird.
Valentine's Love birds
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Why are they called Lovebirds?


Here we lay out top FOUR reasons that deem these feathered creatures the epitome of Love, in the Birdie Kingdom.



1. Monogamy — You can almost never see a Lovebird that is kept in a cage alone, they are most often kept in pairs. At the sexual maturity age of only 10 months, a Lovebird would have most likely stuck themselves to one other Lovebird— and they are a monogamous couple for life. Indeed, they are known to have the same mating partner for the entire lifespan of 10 to 15 years, much like a loving old couple (say, Awww).
Lovebird behaviour
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2. The Fear Of Being Alone — Although some owners prefer building a close personal relationship by keeping just one Lovebird, it has been strongly advised to keep them in pairs. Lovebirds are known to thrive better with a partner, and they often display signs of depression or even odd changes in behaviour— Mostly from loneliness, or by being separated from their mate.



3. Affection — Lovebirds are reported to have the ability to recognize their mates. After being reunited, they display their affections by feeding one another, as means of rebuilding their long lost bond. Even during mating period, they are mostly seen feeding their mates.

This looks a lot like kissing, don’t you think? J
Lovebirds kissing
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4. Jealousy — On the off-set chances where Lovebirds get a little aggressive, is usually due to territorial behavior. They love having their own space and homes, often seen attacking another whom invaded their privacy. While experts call it protective behaviour, we'd like to think this could be a slight display of jealousy too.



Appearances Of Lovebirds


The Lovebird looks like a tiny parrot. As compared to a Budgerigar, Lovebird bodies are much stockier, varying from 13 to 17 cm in length, weighing 40 to 60 grams— They also have larger bills. Some of the common pet Lovebirds are as such:

Peach/Rosy face — Spots a peachy shade on the faces, followed by a body of yellow or green plumage.

Masked Lovebird — Noticeable by their black faces, which gives them the appearance of “wearing a mask". Common feather plumages are yellow and green with red bills, or white and blue with pink bills.

Fischer’s Lovebird — Beautiful gradient of orange face, yellow breast and overall green plumage, with red bills and white ringed eyes.

Currently a vast colouration of Lovebirds are available, as seen on the diagram below. Breeding has enabled  more colour combinations for each species.
Lovebird Colours
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 Personality Of Lovebirds


Being a excellent and loyal lovers to their partners is just one of the amazing traits of a Lovebird. They make a popular choice of pet Birds for many because of their ability to learn tricks. Owners find it a rewarding experience, but good results only derive from the level of attachment and effort you put into your Lovebirds! After a bond between owner and pet has been established, Lovebirds remain loyal not only to their partners, but also to their owners.
Lovebird personalities
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One such display of their intelligence was seen on our trip to Farmart Centre Singapore.

A pair of Peach Face Lovebirds were able to perform tricks and were allowed to roam freely, only upon their owner’s call do they respond and take flight. We also learnt that having seed treats come in handy whilst training a Lovebird (much like teaching a Dog tricks). Lovebirds are also known to be affectionate towards their owners, and they often enjoy a good neck scratch and even some cuddling.



Housing and Food


Much like other parrot species, a good sized home is a must for a Lovebird, especially if they come in pairs, they can be active and require ample space to climb, hop, or perch. Lovebirds also like residing in holes, provide a little birdhouse and watch them pop in and out of the little hole. Be sure to include toys for entertainment.
Lovebirds as Pets
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Lovebirds in the wild thrive on fruits and seeds, supply a good seed mixture for parrot breeds and fruit or vegetable treat to supplement their nutritional needs. Ensure that their cages are as clean as possible, plus a change of food and water every day. Place a bathing dish with shallow water, large enough for them to splash and get a nice dip as means of cleaning themselves. Otherwise, you can also bottle up some water in a spray-bottle and give them a good spritz!



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Disclaimer


This article was written with informational purposes, as you know, we’d love to share our collective research and experiences as fellow Pet owners and lovers. It is not meant to alternate in any way as advice or diagnosis of Professionals.


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