Black Masked Lovebirds

Question
Hi Chris!
Thanks for your time.  I own two breeding pairs of Black Masked lovebirds, green.  I've had one for a year, and one for about one month.  I can breed macaws and African Greys, but these little guys (and girls), won't breed.  I've set one pair outside, and one inside away from the large birds.  I feed them cockatiel seed, pellets, fruit and veggie food, and a calcium suppliment..mullet.  They won't eat fresh fruits or veggies.  Any suggestions?  Thanks!

Answer
I hesitate to say this Cheryl, but are you quite sure they are true pairs? Have they bred successfully in the past or been DNA sexed? They are notoriously difficult to sex in any other way, whatever folks may tell you.

Are they showing interest in nest material? Palm leaves, willow branches etc. should quickly be destroyed and the strips carried to the box when Lovebirds are in the mood.

The diet seems fine though you could try a vitamin supplement as they aren't taking fruit and veg.

Otherwise I can only think they just don't like each other at the moment. That happens some times. Try separating them for a few weeks, out of earshot of the partner, then reintroduce them. Absence makes the heart grow fonder!