Phoenix’s Lovebird Colony Thrives Despite Relocation from Africa

The rosy-faced lovebirds have adapted to the desert climate and formed lifelong bonds, offering lessons on avian relationships.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A colony of rosy-faced lovebirds, originally from the Namib Desert in Africa, has established a thriving presence in Phoenix, Arizona. These small parrots, known for their lifelong mating bonds, have managed to survive in the desert climate by sticking close to human habitats and air conditioning. The colony, estimated at around 2,000 birds, is believed to have started in the 1980s when pet lovebirds escaped or were released by owners.

Why it matters

The lovebirds’ ability to adapt to a new environment and maintain their strong pair bonds offers insights into avian behavior and the resilience of wildlife. Their presence in Phoenix also highlights the potential impacts, both positive and negative, of non-native species introductions.

The details

Rosy-faced lovebirds are one of nine lovebird species, known for their tendency to form lifelong mating pairs. They can often be seen perching close together, engaging in behaviors like mutual grooming and food sharing. The Phoenix colony is believed to be the largest outside of Africa, with the birds taking advantage of the city’s air conditioning and nesting in the holes of cacti and palm trees. While some experts think the lovebirds should have been left in Africa, they admire the birds’ adaptability to their new surroundings.

  • The lovebirds were first noticed in the Phoenix area in the 1980s.
  • The current population is estimated to be around 2,000 birds.

The players

Rosy-faced Lovebirds

A species of lovebird originally from the Namib Desert region of Africa, now thriving in a colony in Phoenix, Arizona.

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, Maricopa Bird Alliance volunteer (nbcchicago.com)

“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 (nbcchicago.com)

“Then everything’s good.”

— Dr. Stephanie Lamb, Associate veterinarian and bird specialist (nbcchicago.com)

The takeaway

The lovebirds’ ability to thrive in a new environment and maintain their strong pair bonds offers valuable insights into avian behavior and the adaptability of wildlife. Their presence in Phoenix also highlights the complex dynamics of non-native species introductions, which can have both positive and negative impacts on local ecosystems.