How to identify the Lovebird

To correctly identify the Lovebird (Agapornis spp.), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

13-17 cm (5-7 in)

Wingspan

20-25 cm (8-10 in)

Weight

40-60 g (1.4-2.1 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Plumage varies significantly between species. Most species exhibit a predominantly green body plumage with varying colors on the head, neck, and rump. Common head colors include red, orange, yellow, and black. Some species have blue or black rumps. The underparts are typically lighter green.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Strong, hooked, and relatively large for their size, adapted for cracking seeds and nuts. Beak color varies by species, often red, orange, or horn-colored.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown, often with a prominent white periophthalmic ring (bare skin around the eye) in some species (e.g., Peach-faced, Fischer's, Masked Lovebirds).

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Grey to dark grey, zygodactyl feet (two toes pointing forward, two backward).

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Small size, stocky build, short blunt tail, strong pair bonds, and often brightly colored heads contrasting with green bodies. The presence or absence of a white eye-ring is a key field mark for differentiating some species.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles typically resemble adults but may have duller plumage, less intense head coloration, and often a blackish marking at the base of the upper mandible (beak) which fades with maturity. The eye-ring, if present, may be less distinct.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal changes in plumage. Plumage remains consistent throughout the year.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Generally monomorphic, meaning males and females look alike in most species. However, some species exhibit slight sexual dimorphism, such as the Madagascar Lovebird (Agapornis cana) where the male has a grey head and chest while the female is entirely green. In others, males might have slightly brighter or more extensive coloration, but this is often subtle and unreliable for field identification.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. Look for a small, stocky parrot with a relatively large head and beak, and a short, blunt tail. This distinguishes them from longer-tailed parakeets.
• Plumage Coloration. Observe the overall green body plumage combined with distinct, often brightly colored patches on the head, neck, or rump. Note the specific colors and patterns, as these are key to species identification within the genus.
• Eye-ring. Check for the presence or absence of a prominent white bare-skin ring around the eye. This is a crucial field mark for differentiating species like Peach-faced, Fischer's, and Masked Lovebirds (which have it) from species like Nyasa or Black-cheeked Lovebirds (which lack it).
• Behavior. Look for pairs perched closely together, often preening each other. Their social nature and tendency to fly in tight, noisy flocks are also good indicators.
• Vocalizations. Listen for their characteristic high-pitched, chattering, and often shrill calls. They are quite vocal and their calls can often be heard before they are seen.

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