What Do Lovebirds Need to Make a Nest?

Some lovebirds will make their own nests, but other lovebird varieties prefer to steal nesting materials. Provide your lovebirds with the nesting materials they need so they can build nests for their clutches of eggs. The materials you use depend on where you live, but you should be able to buy the most appropriate nesting materials. Ask a pet store manager to special-order these materials for you.

  1. Nesting Box versus Cage

    • The nesting box is especially made to accommodate the eggs after the hen has laid them. The side with the entrance features a raised platform, allowing the cock to keep his mate company without crowding her as she sits on top of her eggs in the lower portion.

    Natural, Non-Poisonous Materials

    • Use natural materials that have not been treated with pesticides. Your lovebirds will tear them apart to create their nests̵2;if they lick a palm frond treated with an insecticide or pesticide, they can ingest it and be poisoned.

      Slip moist palm fronds into the nesting box. The lovebirds, particularly the hen, will shred the palms and carry them in under their wings to start building the nest. The hen is much more adept at this than the cock.

    Finding Nesting Materials

    • Good choices for nesting material include palm fronds, plain white paper towels, long grass and eucalyptus. A layer of clean wood shavings on the bottom of the nesting box adds a layer of softness and warmth for the eggs. You̵7;ll need to provide fresh nesting material daily. Don̵7;t worry about removing the old nesting material̵2;your lovebirds will just add the new shredded stuff to the top.

    Remember Moisture

    • Even though you are adding new nesting material every day, it dries out. Once the eggs have been laid, they need constant moisture so they don̵7;t dry out. Wet the palm fronds before you lay them in the nesting box. The birds will take care of the rest of the nest maintenance.