Some Lovebird breeders don't want to bother with Hand Feeding, so they prefer to stay in the nest box to be cared for by the parents. But for some lovebird breeders are very interested in hand feeding for baby lovebirds. And this is also what I did since the beginning of lovebird breeding. I love watching them grow every moment before my eyes, gradually seeing their every change, noticing the effects of the nutrients, the proteins, that we give to the baby lovebirds.
This may often be done by hobbyists who want to keep lovebirds as pets. With Hand Feeding they will become tame, closer to you and of course be able to play, and that is very fun. Hand feeding lovebird chicks can be a rewarding experience when done correctly, but knowing the safe age to start, using the right tools, and following a proper feeding schedule based on age are all critical to ensuring their health and development.
Whether you’re a new pet owner or an experienced breeder, understanding the needs of baby lovebirds from their first week to weaning is essential. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about hand feeding lovebirds, including must-have equipment and how often to feed them at each stage of growth.
Essential Tools for Safely Hand Feeding Lovebird Chicks
Baby parrots and lovebirds, unlike some other bird species, do not naturally open their beaks when requesting food from their parents. Due to this unique characteristic, special customized equipment is required to ensure the feeding process takes place safely and efficiently. It takes the right tools that are specifically designed without forcing the baby lovebird to open its beak excessively. The use of the right equipment also helps reduce the risk of injury and ensures that every drop of food given can be properly absorbed by the baby's body.
Spuit Syringe hand feeding Lovebird
It consists of a plastic tube with a movable plunger to control the amount of food given to the baby bird. In the context of hand feeding lovebirds. There are several choices of syringe media for penetration into the baby lovebird's cache in the form of manufactured stainless steel which bends to follow the neck groove with a slightly rounded tip. There are other options made from flexible PVC plastic hose and the last one is made from rubber hose.
Spoon Hand Feeding Lovebird
This is a factory-designed spoon with curved leaves, attempting to resemble the lower beak of a hen. You can also make your own using a soup spoon, bent at the end. This is my most recommended tool when the lovebirds are still at the age of 1-10 days when their beaks are still vulnerable to our touch especially when wanting to insert a tube if using a syringe.
Hand Feeding Formula for lovebird
Hand feeding formula is a special food mixture formulated with a balanced nutritional content, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for the physical development and health of baby lovebirds. In powder form, it is then mixed with warm water to obtain a certain level of viscosity.
Hand feeding formula products are often customized to specific bird species, some well-known brands that are often used by breeders and bird keepers are Kaytee Exact for Lovebirds, Nutribird A21, and Zupreem hand feeding, all of which have been proven from several experiences of lovebird breeders around the world.
Special place for baby lovebirds
A special place for baby lovebirds, often referred to as an incubator or brooder, is an environment designed to provide optimal conditions for their growth and development during their early life. This place is very important, especially since baby birds are not cared for by their parents and need to be intensively cared for by humans.
If you don't have an incubator, you can also make a cardboard box with a light to keep it warm.
The most important thing is to maintain the temperature.
Baby lovebirds need a warm and stable temperature, usually between 32-35 degrees Celsius during the first weeks. Adequate humidity is also important to prevent dehydration and keep the baby lovebird's skin and feathers healthy.
Ideal humidity levels are usually in the range of 50-60%.
While temperature and humidity should be maintained, good ventilation is also important to ensure there is adequate air circulation. This helps prevent the buildup of harmful gases and ensures fresh air can enter.
What Is the Safest Age to Start Hand Feeding Lovebird Chicks?
A safe age to start handfeeding baby lovebirds is when they are around 10 days old, they start to be more ready to accept hand feeding, because at this age their beaks start to harden, and they already have the capacity to swallow the formula better. Although some lovebird breeders and hobbyists start hand feeding from hatching, it is very risky if not based on experience. However, this is also a good step for those of you who want to tame lovebirds as pets at home. Because the bond between you and the lovebird will be closer.
Hand Feeding Frequency for Lovebird Chicks by Age
The frequency of hand feeding lovebird chicks depends on their age and growth needs. In general, here is a general guide on the frequency of feeding per day:
Feeding Schedule for Lovebird Chicks Aged 1-7 Days
Newly hatched baby lovebirds usually need to be fed every 2-3 hours, including at night. This means they can be fed up to 8-10 times in a day. At this stage, they are very dependent on food and require frequent intake.
Feeding Schedule for Lovebird Chicks Aged 8-13 Days
At this age, feeding frequency can be reduced to about 6-8 times a day. They may start to have a little break between meals, but still require nighttime feedings.
Hand Feeding Tips for Lovebirds Between 15 and 28 Days Old
Feeding frequency can be reduced to 4-5 times a day. At this stage, the lovebird chicks start to grow stronger and the gap between feedings can be extended. Usually, nighttime feedings are no longer necessary.
Feeding Schedule for Lovebird Chicks Aged 29 Days Up
After one month of age, feedings can be reduced to 2-3 times a day. At this stage, lovebirds begin to show interest in solid food and may start learning to feed themselves. At this time, the weaning process can begin gradually.
It is important to constantly monitor the condition of the baby lovebirds, ensure that they are receiving an adequate amount of food, and feed according to their individual needs.
Each baby bird can have slightly different needs, so flexibility and careful attention is necessary.
To note is the viscosity level at each age stage, there is no specific benchmark but you need to gradually go from thinner for ages 1- 8 days, to a certain viscosity for later ages.
By understanding the safe age to hand feed your lovebird chicks, using the right tools, and following an age-specific feeding schedule, you’re ensuring healthy growth and a strong bond with your feathered friends. Whether you’re a first-time breeder or a seasoned bird lover, proper care and feeding are key to raising happy, thriving lovebirds. Stay informed, invest in quality equipment, and watch your baby birds flourish—because healthy pets mean happy homes and a rewarding bird-keeping experience.