# Peach-faced Lovebird (*Agapornis roseicollis*)

> Peach-faced lovebirds are small colourful parrots from southwestern Africa, named for strong pair bonds and affectionate behaviour. Wild birds have green bodies with peach faces; captive colour mutations are popular pets. They weigh 40–60 g (1.4–2 oz), live in flocks at waterholes, and are Least Concern in the wild.

- **Category:** Bird
- **Conservation status (IUCN):** Least Concern
- **Range:** Dry woodland and savanna of southwestern Africa in Namibia, Angola, and South Africa; feral populations from escaped pets in Arizona and other warm regions.
- **Canonical page:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/lovebird/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Scientific classification

- **Kingdom:** Animalia
- **Phylum:** Chordata
- **Class:** Aves
- **Order:** Psittaciformes
- **Family:** Psittaculidae
- **Genus:** Agapornis

## Facts at a glance

| Attribute | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Scientific name | Agapornis roseicollis |
| Diet | Herbivore — seeds, fruit, berries, and cultivated crops |
| Habitat | Dry woodland, savanna, and river valleys of southwestern Africa |
| Lifespan | 10–15 years in the wild; 15–20 in captivity |
| Weight | 40–60 g (1.4–2.1 oz) |
| Top speed | Fast direct flight; agile in trees |
| Conservation status | Least Concern (IUCN) |

## Pair bonding

Lovebirds form strong monogamous pairs that preen, feed, and roost together year-round. In captivity a lone bird may bond with a human or mirror if no partner is available. Wild flocks gather at waterholes in dry country, splitting into pairs during breeding.

## Nest building in captivity

Females tuck nesting material into tail feathers and carry it to a cavity — a behaviour famous among pet owners who provide paper strips. In the wild they nest in tree holes and rock crevices, laying 4–6 eggs per clutch.

## Pet trade and colour morphs

Selective breeding produced lutino, pied, and orange-faced colour varieties far removed from wild green plumage. Lovebirds are social, noisy, and need companionship — unsuitable for owners who cannot provide daily interaction or a same-species partner.

## Wild populations and crops

Least Concern across Namibia, Angola, and South Africa, peach-faced lovebirds sometimes damage millet and sunflower crops. Escaped pets establish feral colonies in Arizona and other warm regions outside native range.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do lovebirds need a partner?

They are highly social — wild birds pair for life. Pet lovebirds do best with a companion bird or extensive daily human interaction to prevent loneliness and feather plucking.

### How long do lovebirds live?

About 10–15 years in the wild and 15–20 years in captivity with good diet and veterinary care.

### Where are lovebirds from?

Southwestern Africa — arid woodlands and savannas of Namibia, Angola, and South Africa, often near water in dry country.

### Are lovebirds parrots?

Yes — small parrots in the family Psittaculidae. They have curved beaks, zygodactyl feet, and the intelligence typical of parrots.

### Can lovebirds talk?

They mimic whistles and some words but are not among the best talkers. Their loud chirps and social chatter are more characteristic than speech.

## Sources

- [IUCN Red List — Agapornis roseicollis.](https://www.iucnredlist.org/search?query=Agapornis%20roseicollis&searchType=species)
- [Animal Diversity Web — Agapornis roseicollis. University of Michigan Museum of Zoology.](https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Agapornis_roseicollis/)

---
Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/lovebird/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.