Phoenix Hosts Largest Rosy-Faced Lovebird Colony Outside Africa

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Phoenix, Arizona is believed to be home to the world's largest colony of rosy-faced lovebirds outside of their native southwestern Africa. These small parrots, thought to be descendants of escaped pets, have been able to survive the city's sweltering weather by sticking close to humans and their air conditioning.

Why it matters

Lovebirds are known for mating for life, making them a unique subject for studying animal behavior and relationships. The thriving lovebird colony in Phoenix provides researchers an opportunity to better understand how these rare birds have adapted to an urban environment so far from their natural habitat.

The details

Rosy-faced lovebirds are small parrots native to southwestern Africa. In Phoenix, they can be seen flashing their green feathers and chattering in the sky, having established a large colony in the desert city. Experts believe these lovebirds are descendants of pet birds that escaped or were released, and have been able to thrive by living in close proximity to humans and taking advantage of air conditioning to survive the hot Phoenix climate.

• The lovebird colony in Phoenix is believed to have been established over the past several decades.