How to Breed Lovebirds

Breeding lovebirds isn't easy, but it's very rewarding if you have the time and energy. These sweet little parrots make good parents, and the chicks become used to human contact, making them great pets. You can even breed lovebirds outdoors if the climate is suitable.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lovebirds (male and female)
• Breeding cage
• Nest box
• Nesting material

1. Make sure you have a male and female lovebird. It's difficult to tell the difference, so you may want to ask your veterinarian to do a DNA test to make sure. You can also do this yourself with a kit, but it will require that you cause your birds some pain.

2. Get your birds as healthy as possible. This means feeding them fresh fruit and vegetables, not just seeds. It also means lots of fresh water, at least 12 hours of strong light every day and a clean cage.

3. Provide a cage for each mated pair. You may also have to construct a barrier between cages so the pairs can't see those in other cages. Make sure the cages aren't too cramped.

4. Buy a nestbox, hang it outside the cage, and cut a hole in the cage so the birds can get to it. You will be able to look into the nestbox without putting your hand into the cage and upsetting your lovebirds.

5. Buy nesting material from a pet store or provide paper towels for the lovebirds to shred and take into the nestbox. Continue to provide material even after the nest is built so the lovebirds can keep it fresh.

Tips & Warnings

• There are few things more heartbreaking than watching hatchlings become sick and die. Don't attempt to breed your lovebirds unless you've done considerable research and have the time and resources to devote to it.
• Lovebirds should be at least 10 months old before breeding. After they raise their first chicks, give them six months off before breeding them again. Retire your birds when they're 5 years old.

Resources

• Learn more about lovebirds at Pet Care Tips.