Lovebirds also thrive in compatible pairs. People who do not find time to spend with their birds can still have the benefit of watching these birds together. Do not expect the same degree of loyalty as you would from a single hand fed baby. A pair of lovebirds will form a bond to each other and will show affection to its partner rather then its owner.
Lovebirds, like all pets, are healthiest and happiest when they have the proper equipment and accessories for optimal care.
Following is a list of some suggested items for the care of you bird.
Lovebirds Checklist
Housing:
The cage should be in place before the lovebird is brought home. It should be large enough to allow freedom of movement-even short flight.
Cage Paper:
Specially coated gravel paper, which is available in a variety of sizes and pre-cut to fit your cage, should be placed on the bottom of the cage for easy clean up of droppings. Gravel paper contains grit, which is essential to a bird’s digestion. Cage liners should be changed daily to maintain cleanliness.
Cage Covers:
Dark and quiet contribute to a good night's rest for your bird. A cage cover is helps birds sleep, keeps them quiet and protects them from drafts. A cage cover is also a good tool when trying to calm your bird.
Perches:
Perches should be large enough for the bird to wrap its toes ¾ of the way. These should be spread out throughout the cage to allow for adequate exercise.
Nest Box:
A nest box for a single bird or a pair of birds is to provide security and a special place for Lovebirds to sleep.
Food:
There are several good brands of food found in a Petland Discounts. Be sure you are feeding a complete, well balanced diet for your pet bird species. Birds eat small amounts all day long, so make sure fresh food and water are always available.
Treats:
There are several brands and types of treats that will give your bird some variety in his diet. Honey sticks, seed treats, and fruit treats add not only variety but also fun to your birds diet.
Vitamins:
A good vitamin is recommended to ensure that your bird is getting the proper nutrition. Vitamin A is a particularly important vitamin that promotes new cell growth to help maintain healthy eyes, skin and feathers, as well as respiratory and intestinal tracts. These vitamins supplement the needs of the birds, and are especially valuable to older or breeding birds for optimum health.
Mineral Beak Conditioner:
A mineral block, or cuttlebone is essential to the health of a bird. Calcium is especially important for bone formation as well as molting. It is aids in the prevention of beak overgrowth.
Toys:
Birds are intelligent animals and need mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Offer a variety of toys in different shapes, color and sizes to keep your bird busy. Rotate toys often to keep your bird from losing interest.
Spray bottle:
Lightly spraying a bird with warm water from a spray bottle, on a daily or weekly basis, will stimulate preening and keep feathers clean and healthy.
Books:
There are several books about budgies/cockatiels that can give you good insight into the care and habits of your particular bird.
