Lilian's lovebird

Lilian's lovebird, also known as the Nyasa lovebird, is a small African parrot species of the lovebird genus. It is mainly green and has orange on its upper chest and head. It is 13 cm (5 inches) long and is the smallest parrot on mainland Africa. In captivity, it is uncommon and difficult to breed.

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Distribution

Region

South-central Africa

Typical Environment

Found in southern Malawi, northwestern Mozambique, southeastern Zambia, and adjacent parts of Zimbabwe. It favors mopane (Colophospermum mopane) and mixed woodland, riverine thickets, and wooded savannas, often near permanent water. Birds use natural cavities in baobab, mopane, and other trees for nesting. They may forage along field margins and floodplains, especially after rains. Human-altered landscapes are used when seed resources are abundant but only where safe roost sites and water remain nearby.

Altitude Range

200–1400 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size13–14 cm

Wing Span22–28 cm

Male Weight0.032 kg

Female Weight0.03 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Also called the Nyasa lovebird, it is the smallest parrot on mainland Africa. It relies on daily access to water and is strongly associated with mopane woodlands. Females carry nesting material tucked into their rump feathers, a classic lovebird trait. Trapping and habitat loss have caused local declines, and it is uncommon in captivity and difficult to breed.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats

Social Behavior

Usually seen in small to medium flocks outside the breeding season, gathering at waterholes and seed-rich patches. Pairs are monogamous and nest in natural tree cavities, the female carrying bark strips or grass tucked into her rump feathers. Roosting is communal, often in dense foliage or cavities. Breeding often coincides with the end of the rains when seeds and water are abundant.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Calls are high-pitched, sharp chits and chatter, often given in rapid series during flight. When perched, flocks keep up a lively twittering with occasional shrills, becoming louder at water sources or feeding sites.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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