I got a bird feeder for Father’s Day and this morning was surprised and delighted to see what appeared to be green parrots at the feeder.
After an internet search, it turns out they are Peach-faced Lovebirds. Although native to the Namibian desert in southwest Africa, they have escaped from captivity in many parts of the world and feral birds dwell in Arizona and London.
Peach-faced lovebirds are the most common lovebird held in captivity.
Here is a neat page about peach-faced lovebirds in greater Phoenix where the photo above comes from.
And here is a neat map of sightings of peach-faced lovebirds in Arizona.
{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Artur 06.26.09 at 9:13 am
When riding my bike I saw one of these, at least it looked similar, congregating with the other local birds. It was quite a sight to see such a bright colored bird flying in the rather mono colored desert landscape.
erin 07.03.09 at 8:29 am
I live near the Phoenix Mountain Preserve at Trail 100 and there is a flock of about 20 lovebirds in my neighborhood, they are so fun to watch!
Jennifer 01.06.10 at 12:19 pm
I was wondering; I spotted a large number of the birds while at Steele Indian School Park a few days ago. I thought the birds might be parakeets. Here’s some video: http://www.vimeo.com/8522433
John Wake 01.06.10 at 12:53 pm
That’s them! Cute aren’t they? I haven’t seen any at my bird feeder since that one time. Not that I saw them, anyway.
Jennifer 01.09.10 at 6:04 pm
I had the pleasure of seeing these birds again today and have updated the video to include some new footage and
pictures. There’s a really cute “exchange” between the lovebirds. Enjoy! Video: http://www.vimeo.com/8639782
John Wake 01.09.10 at 7:14 pm
Jennifer, That’s a CUTE video!