Lovebirds are small parrots that are known for forming strong bonds with their mates. They are incredibly social birds that thrive when kept in pairs. Lovebirds are also brightly colored, charismatic, and can even learn to talk a little. Their energetic, affectionate nature makes them extremely popular as pets. However, before bringing one of these feathery companions home, it is important to understand the costs associated with properly caring for a lovebird.
Upfront costs of purchasing a lovebird
The initial cost of purchasing a lovebird from a breeder can range from $15 to $100 depending on factors like age, color mutations, pedigree, and rarity. Some of the factors that influence lovebird pricing include:
- Age – Baby lovebirds that are just a few months old typically cost more than older birds. Babies range from $30 to $100 while adults can cost $15 to $60.
- Color mutations – Rare color mutations like lutinos and albinos can cost 2 to 3 times more than the normal green lovebirds.
- Pedigree – Show quality lovebirds from champion bloodlines can fetch higher prices.
- Rarity – Difficult to find species like the black-cheeked lovebird cost more than common lovebirds like Fischer’s.
- Breeder reputation – Lovebirds from top avian breeders are pricier than those from backyard breeders.
- Training – Lovebirds that are hand-tamed and well-socialized early have higher prices.
The average price range for a typical lovebird from a breeder is $30 to $60. Pet stores often charge slightly higher prices ranging from $50 to $100 per bird. However, lovebirds from pet shops may not be hand-fed and socialized like those from responsible breeders. Before committing, it is important to vet any potential breeders and stores to ensure the birds are healthy and well cared for.
Costs of housing and supplies
Providing proper housing for lovebirds is an essential upfront investment for any new owner. At a minimum, lovebirds require:
- Large cage – Ideally their cage should be at least 24” W x 16” D x 30” H to give them room to fly around. Good quality cages cost $80 to $400 depending on size.
- Perches – A variety of perches made from natural wood, rope, or concrete cost $5 to $50 total.
- Toys – $5 to $15 per toy every couple months as old ones get destroyed. Aim for at least 3-5 toys at a time.
- Food and water bowls – $5 to $15 for a set of bowls. Stainless steel or ceramic work best.
- Grit and cuttlebone – $5 to provide important minerals.
- Treats – $10 to $20 for occasional nutritious goodies like millet sprays.
Bedding like bird-safe litter, newpaper or paper towels will also be needed. Natural wood perches, rope perches and cement perches should be provided to maintain good foot health. always be provided. Varying perch width, material and angles exercises their feet.
The average initial cost for a proper lovebird housing setup ranges from $150 to $500. Owners should budget extra for periodic replacement of worn out cages, perches, and toys down the road too.
Housing and Supplies | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Cage | $80 – $400 |
Perches | $5 – $50 |
Toys | $5 – $15 per toy |
Food bowls | $5 – $15 |
Grit and cuttlebone | $5 |
Treats | $10 – $20 |
Bedding/litter | $10 – $20 |
Recurring costs of ownership
In addition to the initial housing setup costs, owning a lovebird requires some recurring expenses for supplies and care including:
- High quality pellet food – $10 to $20 per month
- Chopped vegetables and fruits – $5 to $10 per month
- Toys to replace destroyed ones – $5 to $10 per month
- Cage accessories – $5 per month for things like filters, litter, and cleaning supplies
- Vitamins – $5 to $10 per month for supplements
- Routine vet visits – $50 to $100 per year
Annual costs like veterinary exams, blood work, and vaccines should also be anticipated. Emergency vet visits for any injuries or illnesses can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the situation.
Pet insurance is available for birds to offset medical costs. Policies vary but premiums typically range from $10 to $30 per month. Lovebird owners should ideally budget at least $50 per month for regular recurring supplies and medical costs.
Annual lovebird ownership costs
Supply/Care | Estimated Yearly Cost |
---|---|
Food | $120 – $240 |
Toys | $60 – $120 |
Vitamins | $60 – $120 |
Vet visits | $50 – $100 |
Cage accessories | $60 |
Total Yearly Costs | $350 – $640 |
Other potential costs
Here are some other variable costs to factor in for lovebird ownership:
- Travel cage – $50 to $200 for a safe carrier cage for trips to the vet.
- Toy-making supplies – $20 to $50 one time investment if making your own toys.
- Clicker and treats – $20 for clicker training tools.
- Grooming supplies – $30 for nail clippers, styptic powder, etc.
- Sitter – $15 to $35 per day if you travel.
- Boarding – $10 to $25 per night if you’re away.
Lovebirds have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years. The costs of properly caring for a lovebird really add up over the years. But most owners feel their companionship and joy are priceless!
Saving money on lovebird ownership
Here are some tips to save money while still providing excellent care:
- Adopt don’t shop – Save on the initial cost by rehoming a lovebird in need.
- DIY toys – Make your own inexpensive toys from household items.
- Buy in bulk – Save on cages, supplies, litter, etc. by buying larger amounts.
- Groom at home – Trim nails and wings yourself instead of paying for grooming.
- Feed pellets – Pellets are cheaper than seed mixes long term.
- Prevent health issues – Keep their environment clean and care for issues early.
- Pet insurance – Helps cover unforeseen vet costs.
Providing proper nutrition, housing, enrichment, and vet care often costs much more than the initial purchase price of a lovebird. But responsible owners view their lovebird as a treasured family member worth every penny.
Conclusion
Lovebirds make wonderfully energetic and affectionate companions when given proper care. But they are not inexpensive pets by any means. Budgeting at least $500 per year is recommended to cover their annual housing, feeding, enrichment, and medical expenses. With good preventative health management, an average lovebird can live 10 to 15 years. So owners must plan to invest around $5,000 to $7,500 over the lifetime of their beloved bird. Understanding these long term costs is essential before making the commitment to welcome one of these feathery friends into your family!