Black Masked Lovebird
Black Masked Lovebird
(Agapornis personatus)
The Black Masked Lovebird is a small, vibrantly colored parrot native to northeast Tanzania in East Africa. Named for the bold black feathers covering its face and head, this lovebird is known for its affectionate personality and strong social bonds—especially when kept in pairs. They typically reach about 6 inches in length and are diurnal, meaning they’re active during the day.
Lifespan:
15-20 years in captivity with excellent care.
Sexing:
Males and females are visually identical (monomorphic); sexing usually requires DNA testing or observation of behavior in bonded pairs.
Enclosure:
Minimum for 2 birds: 24” L x 18” W x 24” H.
Larger flight-style cages or aviaries are highly encouraged for enrichment and exercise.
Substrate:
Line the cage bottom with newspaper or paper towels and change daily. Clean perches, dishes, and cage surfaces weekly to prevent bacterial buildup.
Lighting & Temperature:
Maintain a consistent 12-hour light/dark cycle using natural daylight, and provide full-spectrum UVB avian lighting if indoors primarily.
Keep room temperature between 65–80°F. Avoid drafts, direct air vents, and sudden temperature changes.
Humidity:
Maintain 40–60% humidity. Offer regular opportunities for bathing via shallow dishes, misting, or shower perches.
Food:
Feed a balanced pellet-based diet supplemented with fresh vegetables, leafy greens, fruits (moderation), and occasional seeds.
Socialization:
Black Masked Lovebirds are highly social and thrive on interaction, whether with other lovebirds or with their human caretakers. If kept singly, they will require daily handling, talking, and enrichment to avoid boredom and behavioral issues like feather plucking.
Offer toys that encourage shredding, chewing, and climbing,
Rotate toys weekly to maintain stimulation.
Provide supervised out-of-cage time daily in a bird-safe room for exercise and bonding.
Play music, talk frequently, and introduce training (like targeting or simple tricks) for mental engagement.
Black Masked Lovebirds are vibrant, intelligent, and full of personality. With the right amount of attention and care, they form strong bonds with their owners and can become affectionate companions, especially in a well-socialized environment. Their small size makes them ideal for first-time bird keepers ready for a long-term commitment.