40 years of having and raising Agapornis roseicollis aka Peachfaced Lovebird has taught me a lot! Many thanks to all whom have inspired and instructed me!
1) Boredom
Lovebirds get bored easily. Change out toys, even thier most favorite toys, will keep that birdie brain busy! Grooming toys, toy made for the purpose of destruction are best. Also brain game toys aka foraging toys, where treats are put inside a puzzle!
2) Possessiveness/Teritorial
Lovebirds become very perturbed when "Their space" is invaded... However, intrusions are necessary. Let your Lovebird come out of their cage on it's own... Then feed, water, clean, change toys, etc.
Use specific treats to encourage birdie to come out.
3) Training
Babies need to learn to come to the cage door and out onto your finger. Use treats for reinforce good behavior. Constantly
using GENTLE pressure on the lower tummy and a verbal command of "step up" 10 - 15 times every single day. I have always clipped the first 12 flight feathers during training. About 3-6 months because the bird will see it's owner as "The safe place". LoveBirds in the wild are prey animals. Being on the ground is very scary at first!
When they flop to floor? Immediately retrieve them offer your finger and tell birdie to "Step up". Sympathize, "oh poor birdie! Did fall on the floor!? I'll always save you...." Create a good relationship your bird will want to bond with.
4) Make time to spend with birdie. Everyday. Put it in your schedule. They do get upset if their person or family ignores them for too long. They crave attention! Snuggles, scratched around the head and shoulders rides!
Neglected Lovebird's are very grumpy!
5)Beeeee patient! Bonds aren't built in day. 12 months of nummies, and affection will win them over!
6) Lovebirds are curious. Think baby. They put EVERYTHING in their mouth. Your bird needs to explore its world with it's beak. Over time they learn how much pressure is to much for you. That will beak will turn ito grooming mode eventually. When your little explorer gives you too much pressure? DO NOT SCREAM! Stay calm, say "No! That hurts..." and return bird to it's cage. Start over in 5 minutes. Lovebirds have a need to stay with its "flock". Birdie will want to be returned to your company.
7) Who's the boss? ... Bossy is a general character for Peachfaced Lovebird. It's very important that you become the flock leader. Establish a few ground rules and a regular routine. It's important for your birds respect and SAFETY! A bird on the loose, with no limitations? is a hazard to its self...
Happy birding!
1) Boredom
Lovebirds get bored easily. Change out toys, even thier most favorite toys, will keep that birdie brain busy! Grooming toys, toy made for the purpose of destruction are best. Also brain game toys aka foraging toys, where treats are put inside a puzzle!
2) Possessiveness/Teritorial
Lovebirds become very perturbed when "Their space" is invaded... However, intrusions are necessary. Let your Lovebird come out of their cage on it's own... Then feed, water, clean, change toys, etc.
Use specific treats to encourage birdie to come out.
3) Training
Babies need to learn to come to the cage door and out onto your finger. Use treats for reinforce good behavior. Constantly
using GENTLE pressure on the lower tummy and a verbal command of "step up" 10 - 15 times every single day. I have always clipped the first 12 flight feathers during training. About 3-6 months because the bird will see it's owner as "The safe place". LoveBirds in the wild are prey animals. Being on the ground is very scary at first!
When they flop to floor? Immediately retrieve them offer your finger and tell birdie to "Step up". Sympathize, "oh poor birdie! Did fall on the floor!? I'll always save you...." Create a good relationship your bird will want to bond with.
4) Make time to spend with birdie. Everyday. Put it in your schedule. They do get upset if their person or family ignores them for too long. They crave attention! Snuggles, scratched around the head and shoulders rides!
Neglected Lovebird's are very grumpy!
5)Beeeee patient! Bonds aren't built in day. 12 months of nummies, and affection will win them over!
6) Lovebirds are curious. Think baby. They put EVERYTHING in their mouth. Your bird needs to explore its world with it's beak. Over time they learn how much pressure is to much for you. That will beak will turn ito grooming mode eventually. When your little explorer gives you too much pressure? DO NOT SCREAM! Stay calm, say "No! That hurts..." and return bird to it's cage. Start over in 5 minutes. Lovebirds have a need to stay with its "flock". Birdie will want to be returned to your company.
7) Who's the boss? ... Bossy is a general character for Peachfaced Lovebird. It's very important that you become the flock leader. Establish a few ground rules and a regular routine. It's important for your birds respect and SAFETY! A bird on the loose, with no limitations? is a hazard to its self...
Happy birding!
.
