Black-cheeked lovebird: incubation period, weaning age and breeding
Black-cheeked lovebird eggs hatch after 22–24 days of incubation. Chicks fledge at 38–44 days and are weaned and independent at about 50–55 days. A typical clutch is 3–6 eggs.
Breeding numbers
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Adult weight (g) | 35-45 |
| Length (cm) | 13-14 |
| Clutch size | 3-6 |
| Incubation (days) | 22-24 |
| Fledging (days) | 38-44 |
| Weaning / independence (days) | 50-55 |
| Breeding age (maturity) | 10–12 months |
| Lifespan (years) | 10-12 |
| Breeding season | Autumn-spring |
| Sexing | DNA |
Origin: Zambia — Scientific name: Agapornis nigrigenis
Size: 13-14 cm, 35-45 g
Breeding and care tips
Endangered in the wild; avoid crossing to masked to keep lines pure.
Mutations and colours
Named only (not confirmed or polygenic — not used in the calculation): Blue, Pied.
Zajel's genetics lab predicts chick colours from both parents for established mutations only; disputed ones are shown with a note and left out of the calculation.
Need the exact date? Use the egg hatch calculator and the weaning age chart.
Related species
- Peach-faced lovebird
- Fischer's & masked lovebird
- Nyasa Lilian's lovebird
- Cockatiel
- Indian ringneck
- Alexandrine parakeet
- Plum-headed parakeet
- Moustached parakeet
Frequently asked questions
How long do Black-cheeked lovebird eggs take to hatch?
Black-cheeked lovebird eggs hatch after 22-24 days of incubation.
How many eggs does a Black-cheeked lovebird lay?
Usually 3-6 eggs per clutch.
When do Black-cheeked lovebird chicks leave the nest?
Chicks fledge at about 38-44 days old.
When are Black-cheeked lovebird chicks weaned?
They are weaned and independent at about 50-55 days.
At what age can a Black-cheeked lovebird breed?
A Black-cheeked lovebird reaches breeding age at about 10–12 months; pairing earlier is not advised.
What is the Black-cheeked lovebird breeding season?
Autumn-spring
How do you tell a male Black-cheeked lovebird from a female?
DNA
How long does a Black-cheeked lovebird live?
About 10-12 years with good care.