Lovebirds are small parrots that are often imagined as peach-faced birds. However, there are many other colors and mutations available for adoption that are sure to delight any potential owner. Here are 5 things to know and understand about these birds so that you and your bird will have a long and happy life together.

Singles or Doubles-Whether you decide to adopt one or two birds depends entirely on your lifestyle. If you don’t have a lot of time to spend with your bird on a consistent basis, adopting two birds is recommended so they can provide each other with the necessary companionship and interaction to stay healthy. If you decide on two, keep in mind that they will probably be more closely related to each other than to you, and factor in double the costs for food, vet bills, cages, and all the other accessories you’ll need. If the added costs are more than you want to commit to and your lifestyle doesn’t allow you to spend a lot of time with the bird, it’s not recommended that you adopt just one.

let’s make lunch-Their diet should consist of high quality pellets to ensure they get all the nutrients they need. Supplement this with fresh organic fruits and vegetables, sprouted seeds (which are higher in nutrients and lower in fat), cuttlefish bone for extra calcium, and an unlimited supply of clean, fresh water. Provide your bird with specialty treats that are colorful and varied in both visual texture and flavor. There are many sources on the web for recipes for homemade treats that any bird would call delicious. Be sure to consult with your avian vet about giving additional vitamins if your bird is using a pellet diet to avoid vitamin toxicity. Never feed your Lovebird chocolate, caffeine, rhubarb, avocado, or alcohol, as these are toxic to birds.

Could I have your attention, please? If you have a lot of time and love to give the Lovebird is for you. They need and love one-on-one attention, and giving them this attention and affection on a daily basis can keep your bird happy and emotionally healthy. Daily interaction with their primary caretaker will help prevent potentially dangerous behaviors such as feather plucking, mutilating, biting people and other pets.

Did you say silence? For some these birds may seem noisy; for others, the sounds they make are perfectly fine. How loud is loud depends on your individual bird, and you and your family’s willingness and ability to tolerate it. If you live where you share walls with neighbors, the sounds of the birds can create a problem for others, as they tend to be loud at certain times of the day. They are generally not talkative and rarely learn words.

Love is in the air-Using a high-efficiency particulate retention (or HEPA) air purifier is one of the best ways to keep your bird healthy and literally put love in the air. Removing air pollutants that often carry viruses and bacteria that cause infection and disease is a proactive way to keep you, your bird, and your family healthy.