Help with lovebirds

[peachesandpepper]

I got a pair of lovebirds in February, they are approx i years old. I have spent quite a bit of time with them but they are still very wild, if I put my hand in they cage they go crazy. I am just about to give up with them but if anyone has any advice please let me know.

[Lori~D]

Taming a pair that has been together that long is near impossible. They would have to be separated. They are bonded to each other and have no need for you. I'm sorry but its true. You have the choice of separating them and taming one and giving the other up for adoption (as they will scream for each other in the same house) or giving them to someone who has no desire to "handle" them and just have them. Or keeping them happy and safe in your home and getting another bird for a hands on pet. Its unfortunate but simply the way it is with lovebirds and pet stores (and even some breeders) who are hungry for money insist that lovebirds MUST be sold in pairs are not doing the birds any favors. Single lovebirds (esp males) make the best pets. Very personable and cuddly in -your-pocket type birds, but once they pair they have no need for human companionship but make great pets for someone who likes birds but doesnt have the time or desire to handle them. They then have each other for phisycal contact they need. I get so angry when I hear some sales person saying "these birds must be sold in pairs" that I open my mouth and let them know how wrong they are.
On the other hand this is why you will see so many pairs of lovies in shelters and rescues. My suggestion is to keep them and get another baby for your pet. Get them a big cage and lots of toys and enjoy there playful antics while they enjoy each other in play.

[dancelady]

I'm not going to say that a pair of lovebirds can't be tamed, but it takes a person who is patient and wants to get to know the birds. Your birds may not have been together all that long, so they may not be bonded. They aren't that old so you can tame them, it just takes a bit longer. First, don't put your hand in the cage, until you have been speaking to them softly and getting them to know you and getting them not to be scared. This is the first thing, and it also helps for you to do the chores in their cage. Try to keep your hands aways from the birds until you have gently gotten their trust. Be slow and don't move too rapidly. Try to offer them a millet spray (2 inches or so) through the cage and let them see you are friendly. Keep doing this and if they like it, they will come over more often. You can do this several times a day. If you can play the radio, it will help them relax (classical or easy listening is good or a tropical forest sound mix). When they can accept your hand in the cage to change water, etc. then you can move to put the millet in your hand into the cage where they can see it. Don't try to do anything but just leave it there for a few minutes, then take it away. Go back and do it again. After awhile, they might come over to try it. All this is a slow, patient, gentle approach. I hope that this helps and you will not give up on the birds!