Ask Lafeber

How long should lovebirds sit on their babies?

My lovebird hatched one chick and she’s been sitting on it or as it’s gotten bigger next to it for about three weeks since it’s hatched. However, I found her tonight sleeping on a different perch away from her nest. The baby is fine and it’s not cold indoors but I was wondering if the baby still needs warmth from the mother or how long should they sit on their chicks?

Hi Simpson,

Once the chick has enough feathers, it can control its own body temperature, and the parents will not sit on it all the time. As soon as the chick leaves the nest box, remove the box so the parents will not nest again too soon. They should be rested for 6 months before giving them the box back.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda