Grey-headed lovebird

The Grey-headed lovebird, scientifically classified as Agapornis canus, is a small parrot species belonging to the lovebird genus. It is notable for being the only lovebird species not native to the African continent, instead originating from the island of Madagascar. This species is characterized by its primarily green plumage, with a key distinguishing feature being its sexual dimorphism: only adult males display grey coloration on their head and upper chest, while adult females are entirely green. The Grey-headed lovebird is also the smallest among all lovebird species.

Taxonomy and Discovery

The species was first described in 1760 by French zoologist Mathurin Jacques Brisson, who illustrated and described it based on a specimen from Madagascar, giving it the French name 'La petite perruche de Madagasgar' and the Latin 'Psittacula Madagascariensis'. While Brisson's Latin names were not recognized under the binomial system, the species was later described by Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, and John Latham. In 1788, Johann Friedrich Gmelin formally assigned it the binomial name Psittacus canus, placing it within the parrot genus Psittacus. It was later reclassified into the genus Agapornis by Prideaux John Selby in 1836. The genus name Agapornis is derived from the Greek words 'agape' (love) and 'ornis' (bird), reflecting the common name 'lovebird'. The specific epithet 'canus' is Latin for 'grey'. Two subspecies are recognized: A. c. canus found in most of Madagascar, and A. c. ablectaneus found in southern Madagascar.

Physical Description

Measuring approximately 13 cm (5 inches) in length, the Grey-headed lovebird is one of the most diminutive members of its genus, with an average weight of 30–36 grams. Its beak and feet are pale grey. As mentioned, the species exhibits sexual dimorphism. The adult female is entirely green, with a darker green on her back and wings, a vibrant green rump, and a paler shade of green on her chest. The adult male shares this green coloration but is distinguished by the pale grey covering his entire head and upper chest.

Behavior and Habitat

Grey-headed lovebirds are strong fliers. When their wings are extended, they appear larger in proportion to their bodies compared to species like the peach-faced lovebird. They are capable of achieving good speeds quickly and effortlessly, and can execute smooth turns, although they are not as agile in the air as peach-faced lovebirds. Their natural habitat is on the island of Madagascar, where they inhabit forests.

Aviculture and Breeding

The Grey-headed lovebird was first introduced to European aviculture in the latter half of the 19th century. Despite their availability, little concerted effort was made towards breeding them when imports were permitted in large numbers. They tend to prefer breeding in the autumn. Their poor tolerance for cold weather often leads to unsuccessful breeding attempts in captivity. In an aviary setting, they are known to be nervous and easily startled.

This species is quite rare in captivity, with only a limited number of breeders successfully producing more than one or two generations. This rarity, coupled with the fact that even hand-fed individuals remain too shy and nervous to make good pets, strongly suggests that any captive Grey-headed lovebirds should be given the opportunity to breed rather than being kept as pets. Their dietary preference in captivity leans towards finch and canary seed mixes, rather than the sunflower and safflower seed mixes commonly fed to other lovebird species.