Lovebirds, also known as agapornis, are small parrots native to Africa that are popular pets around the world. Like all birds, lovebirds reproduce by laying eggs. However, there is some debate around whether lovebirds need to sit on their eggs in order for them to hatch.
Do lovebirds sit on their eggs?
Yes, lovebirds do sit on their eggs during the incubation period. The female lovebird will sit on the eggs for almost the entire incubation period, only leaving the nest for short breaks to eat, drink, and defecate. The male lovebird may occasionally take over sitting duties to give the female a break. Sitting on the eggs is essential for keeping them at the proper temperature for embryonic development.
What is the lovebird incubation period?
The incubation period for lovebird eggs is between 21-24 days. During this time, the eggs must be kept at a temperature between 97-98°F. The hen provides this warmth by sitting directly on top of the eggs and rotating them periodically.
Why do lovebirds sit on their eggs?
There are a few key reasons why lovebirds need to sit on their eggs:
- Warmth – Bird eggs need consistent external warmth in order to develop properly. Lovebird body heat provides the ideal temperature.
- Protection – Sitting on the eggs protects them from predators, accidents, and environmental influences like cold drafts.
- Humidity – The hen’s feathers trap humidity, which keeps the egg membranes from drying out.
- Bonding – Sitting on the eggs stimulates the production of bonding hormones so the parents can imprint on the chicks.
What happens if lovebirds don’t sit on their eggs?
If lovebirds do not properly incubate their eggs, it is very unlikely the eggs will hatch. Without the hen’s body heat, the eggs will quickly cool down and the embryos will die within a few days. Other problems that can occur if eggs are not incubated include:
- Fungal growth – Cool, damp eggs can become contaminated with fungus.
- Bacteria – Lack of sanitation can lead to bacterial infection.
- Embryo abnormalities – Improper temperatures may cause developmental issues.
- Dessication – The membranes will dry out without humidity.
Will lovebird eggs hatch without sitting?
It is extremely rare for lovebird eggs to successfully hatch without being sat on consistently by the parents. The eggs depend on that external warmth and humidity. Some breeders have had luck with artificially incubating lovebird eggs in an incubator, but the hatch rate is significantly lower than when incubated naturally.
How often do lovebirds leave the nest?
Although sitting tightly on the eggs is vital, the parents cannot do it literally all the time. The female will need regular breaks of 10-20 minutes once or twice per day to take care of her own needs. The male may take over briefly during this time. Leaving the eggs unattended for longer than 20-30 minutes can put them at risk.
Reasons lovebirds take breaks:
- Eat and drink
- Defecate/urinate
- Get exercise
- Interact with mate
- Stretch wings and legs
It’s normal for one lovebird to be off the nest for a couple short periods daily. Any longer than that and the eggs can get dangerously cool or be exposed to predators. The parents quickly learn to take efficient breaks and return promptly.
What problems can occur if lovebirds sit too tightly?
Although sitting the eggs consistently is vital, some lovebirds can be prone to sitting too tightly. This carries some risks, including:
- Insufficient air exchange – The eggs still need a small amount of fresh air.
- Difficulty turning – The hen may have trouble rotating stuck eggs.
- Overheating – Eggs that are overly warm can also have issues.
- Bacterial infection – Lack of sanitation under the hen can lead to bacteria.
A healthy balance is ideal. The hen should sit close but not smashed down on the eggs. Leaving a little space allows air circulation.
Tips for lovebirds sitting eggs
Here are some tips for ensuring lovebird hens brood their eggs appropriately:
- Provide a roomy nest – This gives her enough space to settle in comfortably.
- Use nesting material – Nesting material helps regulate humidity and air flow.
- Ensure she’s healthy – A nutrient-deficient hen may have low energy or motivation.
- Limit distractions – Minimize disruptions and stress during incubation.
- Let her leave nest normally – Don’t startle her when getting off to eat.
- Keep fresh water and food close – This allows efficient breaks to eat and drink.
Conclusion
Proper sitting is vital for lovebird eggs to develop and hatch. The parent birds supply the external warmth, humidity, and protection the eggs need to incubate. However, the hen cannot sit constantly without any breaks. Brief breaks once or twice a day to eat, drink, and defecate are normal and healthy. Finding the right balance allows the highest chance of the eggs hatching.