The black-collared lovebird also known as Swindern's lovebird is a small, 13.5cm (5in) long, African parrot in the genus Agapornis and belongs to the Agapornithinae family. The black-collared lovebird is widespread across the African tropical closed rainforest. It is a mostly green parrot with black band on the back of its neck, and a dark greyish-black bill. Both sexes are similar. It is rarely kept in captivity because of its dietary requirement for a native fig.
Region
Central African rainforest belt
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill evergreen rainforest across parts of Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, the Republic of the Congo, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and adjacent regions. It favors closed-canopy primary forest but also uses mature secondary forest and riverine gallery forest. Birds spend much of their time high in the canopy, especially at fruiting fig trees. They avoid open savanna and heavily degraded habitats, making them sensitive to extensive deforestation.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Swindern's lovebird, this species is a shy, canopy-dwelling parrot of Central African rainforests. It relies heavily on native figs (Ficus spp.), which is why it is rarely kept in captivity and often fares poorly away from its natural range. Both sexes look alike, with a distinctive black collar on the nape and a dark bill.
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small, loose flocks that gather at fruiting trees. Strong pair bonds are typical, and breeding is believed to occur in tree cavities high in the canopy. They communicate frequently while foraging but tend to remain concealed among foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are high-pitched, sharp twitters and thin squeaks, often given in short series during flight. Vocalizations are more subdued when feeding, consisting of soft contact notes to keep the group coordinated.
Plumage
Mostly bright to medium green with a distinct black collar across the nape; darker green to dusky head and upper back, and bluish rump. Feathers are smooth and compact, typical of small parrots.
Diet
Primarily consumes figs (Ficus spp.), which can make up the bulk of its diet. It also takes other soft fruits and berries when available, and may supplement with seeds and buds. Birds often move between fruiting trees and may track fig crops seasonally within their home range.
Preferred Environment
Feeds high in the canopy at fruiting trees, especially large strangler figs. Will use forest edges and riverine corridors when these host suitable fig trees.
