Rosy faced lovebird

Introduction: Rosy-faced lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis) prefer open and wooded country which includes semi-desert shrublands, cultivated lands and riparian woodlands, environments that are dependable on water. A noisy and gregarious bird, they congregate small flocks of up to 20. Roosts in sociable weavers nests.

Distribution: Throughout most of Namibia. Epupa Falls, Etosha National Park, Erongo, Spitzkoppe, Brandberg Mountain, Swakopmund and Walvis Bay, Luderitz, Orange River, Kalahari Desert. Fairly common along the Guab River near Klein Karas. Absent from open habitats around Etosha National Park Pan and the Namib Desert sand seas as well as the Caprivi Strip

Diet: Forages on the ground for mostly seeds, flowers and leaves. Eats fruits such as currants and visits cultivated land for maize, millet and sunflower seeds.

Description: A small stocky parrot with short tails. Their plumage is mainly green. The name roseicollis refers to the Latin word for red-necked. Agapornis is Greek for love bird.

Breeding: Nest in tree cavities, rock crevices and in communal weaver nests.

Size: 18cm.

Weight: 55g.