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We are a small, home based aviary hand raising peachface lovebirds in rural Vermont
We are a small, home based aviary hand raising peachface lovebirds in rural Vermont
Family
Our lovebirds are part of the family. They live in our living space, fly around the living room every day, and hang out with us as a family. Babies get a lot of attention and snuggles from us, as well as the occasional friends who visit. We only have one breeding pair, and though we try to limit how many clutches they lay, well, birds are going to do what birds are going to do.
Feeding & Care
Our flock birds are housed in cages that are 36" tall, 14" deep, and 18" wide - mostly we chose this size because it fits our space. Some people might consider these cages small, but we let them out for at least two hours of fly time daily so they get exercise and enrichment. They have lots of toys and a wide variety of perches available to them both inside and outside of their cages. The babies are housed in smaller cages that are appropriate to their phase of development.
The birds are given a variety of foods daily. We use a 1/2 Tbsp measuring spoon as a scoop. Each bird gets one scoop each of pellets, rolled oats (uncooked), and a quality seed mix. On top of this they get a Tbsp or two of cooked grains and assorted veggies (or "chop"). Chop is a large part of their diet, and I recommend that new owners continue to feed the babies the same kind of foods. They also get millet spray as a treat, and each female bird has access to a mineral block for additional calcium.
Basic Chop Recipe
The chop is made in a large batch and then frozen in smaller containers. Everyone has their own recipe - and here is mine! I made this recipe because it is high in protein and fiber, and has a nice balance of nutrients. I then top it with fresh veggies depending on what I have on hand.
Ingredients (uncooked)
2 cups brown rice (or wild rice)
1 cup millet
1/2 cup lentils
1/2 cup quinoa
Mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans blend)
Directions
Cook all of the grains according to the package directions, but using just water and avoid adding oil or salt. Note that each item has different amounts of water and cooking times, so you'll probably need to cook them separately. Add the cooked grains and frozen veggies to a large mixing bowl and gently mix. Portion out into smaller containers or bags to freeze for later.Â
Notes
Feel free to change up which veggies you add to your chop mix - bell peppers and chopped beets also freeze well and are a favorite. Avoid potentially harmful veggies like onions or raw potatoes.
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