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Abyssinian Lovebird
Common Names: Aby
& Black-Winged Lovebird
Scientific Name: Agapornis
taranta
Origin: Ethiopia
and Eritrea
Relative Size: Small 50-56 grams
Average Lifespan: 10 – 20 years.
Abyssinian Lovebirds are large compared to other
lovebirds. In fact, they are the largest of the lovebird species.
This parrot is from Central and Eastern Ethiopia and Eritrea. Its
habitat consists of high grasslands intermixed with trees and
shrubs. Some Abyssinian Lovebirds will thrive in lower grasslands,
but most prefer highland environments. These parrots enjoy mild or
cooler temperatures and breed best in those conditions.
Pets:
Abyssinian Lovebirds are rarely found in captivity. These parrots
make excellent pets; however, they are rare and often not sold as
pets. There is such a limited quantity of these parrots, that most
are entered into breeding programs. Most breeders exchange their
lovebirds to keep the bloodline healthy and fresh.
Owning an Abyssinian Lovebird is a rewarding
experience. They are very loyal and affectionate creatures. If
handfed and properly socialized, these parrots are very curious and
will strongly bond to their owner. Like most lovebirds, females can
become territorial, but constant rules should be set from day one.
These lovebirds have powerful beaks and can do more damage than a
Peach-faced Lovebird. Nibbling should not be encouraged, nor should
any reactions be given when the lovebird decides to bite.
Abyssinians are more prone to stress than Peach-face, Masked, or
Fischer’s Lovebirds. Shaking or yelling at the bird will frighten
him and only encourage aggressive behavior.
Abyssinian Lovebirds can be loud and have a shrill
call. They do not make great talkers; however, they can learn
tricks.
Breeding:
Ideal weather for breeding Abyssinians is late winter or early
spring. These parrots do not breed well in warm weather, nor should
it be practiced with any lovebird specie. If temperatures are too
high, above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the babies and the mother will be
uncomfortable, or the babies could overheat and die.
During nest building, the female will construct the
nest with grasses or any material that is provided. She will tuck
the material into her feathers and carry them back to her nest.
Unlike other lovebirds, the female might remove some down feathers
from her chest and line the nest with them. This is done to provide
extra bedding and a soft cushion for the babies. After constructing
a nest the female will lay 2 – 6 eggs. The eggs will be laid every
other day until the clutch is complete. The duration of the
incubation is 28 days.
After the chicks hatch the mother will care for the
babies until they are 9 weeks old. During this time she will feed
them routinely and keep them warm. Both parents feed and help wean
the chicks.
Diet:
Abyssinian Lovebirds are not picky eaters. Most lovebirds will shy
away form trying different foods, unless they were properly weaned
or exposed to new foods from the start. Abyssinian Lovebirds, on
the other hand, enjoy eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Most
enjoy devouring fresh greens such as broccoli, spinach, or carrot
tops. Adding tropical fruits to their diet such as papaya, figs, or
pomegranate make excellent sources of nutrients as well as tasty
treats.
Giving Abyssinian Lovebirds a diet of pellets only is
not recommend. These birds require a higher fat content than most
parrots. Adding a sufficient amount of sun flower and safflower
seeds will supply the fat content they need to thrive. When feeding
your Abyssinian, it’s better to keep the diet well balanced with
seeds, pellets, fresh fruits, and fresh vegetables.
 Coloring:
When it comes to lovebird colors, Abyssinian Lovebirds are not as
colorful as other lovebird species. All are green and the male has
a red patch on his forehead. Both have black wing and tail
feathers. Their eyes are black and their beak is red.
These lovebirds
are dimorphic, which means they can be visually sexed. |
