Lovebirds require a varied diet made up of a quality small hook-bill seed mix, fresh and cooked vegetables, pellets, and some grains. Some species relish such treats as figs and bits of apple and pear. In fact, Abyssinian lovebirds adore mission figs, which should be a regular part of diet. If you buy dried fruits be sure to buy only sulfite-free brands, which are usually available at health-food stores. Fresh fruits are fine, but vegetables are generally more nutritious and should be the emphasized fresh element of the diet. A dried egg food or mashed hard-boiled egg can be given during breeding season. fresh foods should not be left in the cage more than one or two hours so as to avoid bacterial contamination of the food stuffs, which can make a lovebird seriously ill.

 

All seed mixes are not created equal. You want to be sure to purchase a mix that is fresh; this means that the seeds are not dead and can be germinated and sprouted. A good test is actually to try to sprout your seeds. If they do sprout after three days, this is a quality mix. If not, you will want to try another brand or store. even a quality brand of seed can have problems if it sits on a pet store shelf for too long. In fact, if you ever open a bag of seed or pellets and find cobweblike strings or detect a musty or moldy odor, do not feed your lovebird these items. return the package to the pet store.

 

Generally, the seeds intended for smaller hook-bills such as lovebirds are called one of the following: small hook-bill, hook-bill junior, or lovebird-conure mix. If none of these are available, a cockatiel mix without sunflower seeds should be fine, but also buy a package of safflower seeds if they are not already included in the mix.

 

Certain lovebirds can be quite stubborn about changes in the diet. However, persistence is often the key with these lovebirds. A warmed-up mixture of green peas, carrots, and corn will often entice them. you can sprinkle a few seeds on top to make it more familiar to your lovebird. You may have to try a new food for 10 to 14 days before your lovebird will actually sample it. Attach a sprig of broccoli to the side of the cage; this attracts lovebirds because it is not just food, it is a food toy. grapes elicit a similar reaction because they roll around. A lovebird's natural playfulness will lead to bite of these fresh foods.

 

Grains also play an important role in your lovebird's diet. Bits of sprouted breads can be an enjoyable treat, as can brown rice and cooked or sprouted quinoa, a nutritious South American grain high in protein and calcium.

 

Pelleted diets have become popular in recent years. You may have to try a number of these to find one your lovebird likes. Lovebirds prefer a smaller pellet size and like the fruity varieties. Either cockatiel or parakeet sizes should be fine for your lovebird. While some of the companies that manufacture these pellets suggest it be the main source of nutrition, many long-time breeders have found that variety in the diet creates happier and healthier lovebirds. A good proportion of each of the major food groups will ensure that your bird has an interesting, stimulating, and balanced diet. A small bowl of pellets can be given daily, a long with an extra bowl with fresh foods.

 

One of the most important elements of your lovebird's diet is water. fresh, clean water should be available at all times. Dirty, soiled water is leading cause of bacterial infections. Sometimes you will have to readjust where you put the water bowl if your bird has decided to hang over that particular part of the cage, resulting in soiled water.

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