Lovebirds, Rare Birds That Mate for Life, Thrive in Phoenix

The colony of rosy-faced lovebirds in Arizona is the largest outside of their native Africa.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A colony of rosy-faced lovebirds, a species known for their lifelong monogamous bonds, has thrived in the Phoenix area for decades after likely escaping from the pet trade. The birds have adapted to the hot desert climate by nesting in cacti and palm trees and seeking out air conditioning vents to stay cool.

Why it matters

The lovebirds' ability to form strong, lasting relationships and adapt to a new environment provides insights into animal behavior and the resilience of certain species. Their presence in Phoenix also highlights the impact of the exotic pet trade and the challenges of managing non-native wildlife populations.

The details

The rosy-faced lovebirds, native to the Namib Desert in Africa, are believed to have first appeared in Phoenix in the 1980s, likely escaping from or being released by pet owners. The population has since grown to an estimated 2,000 birds, making it the largest colony outside of their native range. The lovebirds have adapted by nesting in the holes of cacti and palm trees and seeking out air conditioning vents to stay cool in the desert heat.

  • The lovebirds were first noticed in the Phoenix area in the 1980s.
  • The population has grown to an estimated 2,000 birds today.

The players

Robert Carter

A volunteer for the Maricopa Bird Alliance who leads bird walks in the Phoenix area.

Kenn Kaufman

Field editor for Audubon magazine who has written about lovebirds.

Dr. Stephanie Lamb

Associate veterinarian and bird specialist at the Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital.

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What they’re saying

“They definitely show a sense of resilience to the situation that they're in.”

— Robert Carter, Volunteer, Maricopa Bird Alliance (ksgf.com)

“It wouldn't be quite so romantic if humans were doing it.”

— Kenn Kaufman, Field editor, Audubon magazine (ksgf.com)

“Then everything's good.”

— Dr. Stephanie Lamb, Associate veterinarian and bird specialist, Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital (ksgf.com)

The takeaway

The lovebirds' ability to thrive in an unexpected environment and form strong, lifelong bonds provides valuable insights into animal behavior and the adaptability of certain species. Their presence in Phoenix also highlights the complex issues surrounding the exotic pet trade and the management of non-native wildlife populations.