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

The largest colony of rosy-faced lovebirds outside of Africa has adapted to the Arizona heat by nesting near human habitats.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A colony of rosy-faced lovebirds, originally from the Namib Desert in Africa, has thrived in the Phoenix area for decades after likely escaping from or being released by pet owners. These small parrots are known for forming lifelong bonds with their mates and displaying affectionate behaviors like feeding each other and grooming. While some see the lovebirds as an invasive species, experts admire their resilience in adapting to the hot Arizona climate by nesting near air conditioning units and human habitats.

Why it matters

The lovebirds' ability to adapt and thrive in an environment so different from their native habitat provides insight into the remarkable resilience of certain animal species. Their strong pair bonds and nurturing behaviors also offer lessons about the importance of lifelong companionship, even among non-human creatures.

The details

Rosy-faced lovebirds, one of nine lovebird species, are believed to have first appeared in the Phoenix area in the 1980s, likely after escaping or being released from the pet trade. The population has since grown to an estimated 2,000 birds, making it the largest lovebird colony outside of southwestern Africa. The lovebirds have adapted to the desert climate by nesting in the holes of cacti and palm trees and congregating near air conditioning units to stay cool.

  • Lovebirds were first noticed in the Phoenix area around the 1980s.
  • The lovebird population in Phoenix is estimated to have grown to 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

The field editor for Audubon magazine who has written about lovebirds.

Dr. Stephanie Lamb

An 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, Maricopa Bird Alliance volunteer (The Associated Press)

“While Phoenix's lovebirds are believed to be the largest, most firmly established colony outside of Africa, there are also fairly well-established colonies of rosy-faced lovebirds in parts of Hawaii — on the Big Island and in Maui.”

— Kenn Kaufman, Audubon magazine field editor (The Associated Press)

“Then everything's good.”

— Dr. Stephanie Lamb, Associate veterinarian and bird specialist (The Associated Press)

What’s next

Researchers plan to continue monitoring the lovebird population in Phoenix to better understand their long-term adaptation and impact on the local ecosystem.

The takeaway

The lovebirds' ability to thrive in an environment so different from their native habitat is a testament to the remarkable adaptability of certain animal species. Their strong pair bonds and nurturing behaviors also offer valuable lessons about the importance of lifelong companionship, even among non-human creatures.