Hand Fed Black-Masked Lovebird - Agapornis personatus

Noise Level & Talking Ability

Black-masked lovebirds tend to be quieter than some other lovebirds, but still make noise. It is the usual chirps and whistles like other lovebirds. They may learn to imitate some sounds and noises but aren't known for being great talkers.

Physical Features

As the two common names suggest, these birds have a black mask and a yellow collar. The bird is overall green, with a bright red-orange beak. These lovebird have a thick, white eye-ring. The black-mask covers the entire face, extending as far back as the nape in some individuals. The upper breast is yellow, extending around the birds neck. The flight feathers are green becoming black toward the tip. The wings and back are a darker green than the belly and tail. Feet and legs are grey. 

Pet Profile

This little bird will delight you with its playful and amusing antics. They are active intelligent birds and make a wonderful companion and friend. They tend to be fairly calm natured and make excellent pet parrots!

NOTE: Many people believe that lovebirds must be kept in pairs. This is not true. If you are looking to keep a companion bird who wish to socialize and bond with we recommend keeping just one. If you house multiple handfed birds together in the same cage they will start to bond with the other bird(s) more than they would bond with you and your family. A single bird's flock is their human companion.

Diet

These birds should be fed a base diet of pellets. Most lovebird seed mixes in a commercial pet store will work, but it’s important the lovebirds learn to eat pellets as well because they contain a great deal of nutrients not found in seeds. It can take time for the lovebird to eat pellets and the owner should be patient and consistent when exposing them to pellet food. Not only are seeds and pellets essential, so are fresh fruits and vegetables.
Please note: if you are just taking a new bird home it is best practice to always leave their desired food in the cage full time. Water should always be available.

Housing

A roomy cage is required as lovebirds are very active birds. Ideally, a cage for a lovebird should not be smaller than 3 square feet. The bird needs to be provided with proper perches and enrichment in the cage. A variety of diameter wooden perches, a cotton rope, and a concrete perch (near the food dish) are recommended. A minimum of 3 to 5 toys is needed to keep the bird entertained and to prevent boredom. 

Breeding Information

Wild Status

Stable - Least Concern
Last assessed August 2018 for the IUCN Red List