Hi Everyone. I am seeking some advice from those of you more knowledgeable than myself about Sun Conures and peach faced lovies. Here is what is going on ...

A man in the military is being deployed overseas and has a breeding pair of two year old peach faced lovies in an atrium. They are a proven pair, though I am not at all interested in breeding babies! I'll leave that one to the professionals!
The atrium is five feet high, three feet wide, and two feet deep. According to the breeder this man purchased these two lovies from it is okay to put my two blue masked lovies in the same atrium.

He also has a 10 year old Sun, that I have a feeling hasn't been the best socialized bird. I have the time and resources to take all of these birds in, but I have a million questions. I've been reading up on Suns, and believe I know what to expect. I have also been doing research on the peach faced lovies, and feel I could take excellent care of them, though I am a little scared because they have been breeders.

A few of you may remember some months back when I was considering getting a Sun. I do believe they are beautiful and lovely, and would adore being owned by one ...
This being said, I am not certain how well this would go over with Frankie and Isabelle, and most certainly Kit and Skye because it would move their home (and they are quite happy in their new digs).

Now, I read all about Brook and Katie, and it just breaks my heart that she may need to rehome her if something doesn't change. Taking Katie in is also an option, but not an option IN ADDITION to taking the Sun and the two additional lovies.

Any input and suggestions are appreciated.
Thanks for your time!

I'm not experienced with conures or lovies, but a couple things you've said prompt me to reply. I have my quaker pair (not bonded, but friends of a sort) in a cage that's 4X2X2.5' and there's no extra space. My bonded pionus pair share a cage that's 5X3X2.5' and they too use all of it. At 200 grams, they're larger than lovies, but if you're thinking of taking his advice about putting your lovies in with his breeder pair, I think you might have problems that could get bloody. Please don't do that without getting GOOD confirmation that lovies are willing to share that type space peaceably.

If you're keeping this man's 3 birds while he's away, I would think they might all be most comfortable in a room away from you and your birds. They would probably feel safer that way. That would leave your pair in the space they're fond of! But if they'll become yours and you want to tame and socialize them, they need to be in the midst of your activity after their quarantine ends.

You're very generous to be willing to take on 3 new birds who aren't tame. I hope they prove to be healthy and become happy in your home.

gail

I agree with Gail. Do LOTS of research before even thinking about caging these two types of Lovebirds together. From what I understand, Peachfaced Lovebirds are very territorial and have been known to maim or kill cage mates. Out of all the lovies, they are the most aggresive and territorial. So really check this out before attempting to cage your Blue Masks with them.

As for worrying about them breeding, chances are they might not. Most parrots require a nesting box before they will lay eggs. You could ask him about that. He should know if this pair usually lays with or without the box. Also, you have to decide if you are happy with them being unhandable. Some birds, especially breeders don't make good pets. They are simply happy to be left on their own.

As for the Sun, well you could have your work cut out for you But you may find yourself with a great pet too!!

Good luck with whatever you decide.