New Lovebird Owner

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New Lovebird Owner

Postby Steely on Wed Aug 27, 2008 6:58 pm

Hi all,
I have recently purchased a pair of lovebirds. I do understand that when they are in a pair, they tend to pay more attention to each other than to humans. That is fine with me and I love watching them with each other.

I do have two questions about them that perhaps might be answered here. If there is another thread on either of these already, I apologize. I did look first but maybe I missed it.

1) This pair were bought from a pet store. I do know now that this was probably not the best idea, as they are definitely not socialized. Even so, I did not want to bring them back because I love them anyway :) However, they do not seem to love me so much. I give them the best care that I can. They have a clean cage with varied perches, a good supply of clean food and water, treats, and toys. I even play music for them (Mozart) and nature sounds - both of which they seem to enjoy. Despite all of this, they will not come near me unless I am offering them millet and they certainly will not let me touch them. The male runs away from me while the female tries to bite (and actually will bite if I let her) whenever I get near.

2) They get droppings on pretty much everything. I try to keep their cage clean, but some things are harder to clean. For instance, they have a sort of tunnel made out of coconut fiber. They LOVE it. But sadly a couple of washings has nearly destroyed the thing. Also, I want to give the female a nest to work with - but I am worried about what I should do when she fouls the nest. No doubt she would be upset if I touched it, let alone took it out to wash it!

Any input would be wonderful. I love these two and want to do the best for them.


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  • Re: New Lovebird Owner

    Postby MFids on Wed Aug 27, 2008 11:05 pm

    I'd suggest to continue feeding them food and treats from your hands. This allows them to get used to you in a somewhat nonthreatening way. Do this daily. If they have favorite toys, you can try and play with them using their toys.

    Some things are just better replacing after a while... but as far as this pair goes... since you got them from a petstore, there's a possibility that they are related. If they are related this could cause genetic problems within the offspring. Not only that but would you be prepaired to handfeed up to every hour around the clock in case of an emergency or otherwise? Or have the money to take them to an avian vet? Or have extra room for another cage to put the chicks in once weaned? Regardless, hens usually prefer to keep their nest clean and may not soil it at all.

    As for droppings, well you can either wipe it up immediately, or let them dry and then cleaning them up.
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    Re: New Lovebird Owner

    Postby youbetcha1018 on Wed Oct 08, 2008 1:38 pm

    Well, that's the disadvantage of purchasing some pets from a store. They do not have this instinct of thankfulness, cuz they weren't even trained inside some pet store. Anyway, it is so sad to know that those birds are somewhat scared of you and not trying to appreciate everything you are doing for them especially the mozart thing... :D But you know what? In the long run they will love you and recognize you as their friend, just don't give up. Those birds are blessed to have someone like you who will do everything to win their hearts. :)
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