Peach-faced Lovebird (Rosy-faced Lovebird)
Scientific Name: Agapornis roseicollis
Classification: Order: Psittaciformes; Family: Psittaculidae
Brief Description
A small, social, and stocky parrot known for its vibrant green feathers and distinctive peach-colored face. They are highly gregarious and often seen in colonies.
Additional Information
- Region of Origin: Southwestern Africa, specifically Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. Introduced populations exist in Arizona, USA.
- Typical Sighting Period: Year-round in its native range and introduced urban locations; peak activity during the morning and late afternoon.
- Plumage Details: Adults have a bright green body with a blue rump. The face and throat are a peach-rose pink, darker on the forehead. Juveniles have duller faces and a blackish base to the upper mandible.
- Ecological Significance: Acts as a seed disperser and is a prey species for local raptors. In some introduced areas, they compete with native birds for nesting cavities.
- Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN), though local populations may face pressure from the pet trade.
- Observation Tips: In the wild, look for them near water sources in arid environments. In urban areas like Phoenix, Arizona, they are often found visiting bird feeders and nesting in palm trees.
Size & Weight
Length: 15 cm; Wingspan: approx 100 mm; Weight: 45-63 grams.
Diet
Primarily granivorous, feeding on seeds and berries. They frequently visit water holes and agricultural fields for grain.
Habitat
Dry wooded country, sub-desert steppes, and savanna regions near water. Often found in urban parks and gardens in introduced ranges.
Migration
Non-migratory resident; however, they may move locally based on the availability of water and food sources.
Voice (Call & Song)
Noisy with high-pitched shrieks and metallic chirps. They do not have a musical song but are very vocal when in groups.
Nesting & Breeding
Cavity nesters that use rock crevices or palm fronds. They are famous for carrying nesting material (strips of bark/leaves) tucked into their rump feathers.
Key Field Marks
Peach/rose-pink face and throat, bright green plumage, blue rump visible in flight, and lack of a naked white eye-ring.
Similar Species
Fischer's Lovebird (has white eye-ring) and Lilian's Lovebird (smaller with a different reddish facial pattern). The lack of a white eye-ring distinguishes the Peach-faced.
Interesting Facts
They are called 'lovebirds' because of the strong long-term pair bonds they form and the constant grooming and affection shown between mates.