Agapornis taranta (Stanley, 1814)

Common Names

This species is commonly called black-winged lovebird, with the scientific name Agapornis taranta (Stanley, 1814). It is also known as Abyssinian lovebird.

Size

It measures around 16 to 16.5 cm (6.3 to 6.5 inches) in length, and is the largest lovebird species.

Sexual Dimorphism

Like the red-headed lovebird and grey-headed lovebird, the black-winged lovebird is sexually dimorphic. This dimorphism becomes visible in juvenile birds after their first molt, which occurs when they are around eight to nine months old.

General Plumage

Both adult male and female black-winged lovebirds are mostly covered in green plumage.

Male Head Markings

Only adult males have a red forehead and a ring of red feathers surrounding their eyes.

Tail Feathers

The tail feathers are tipped with black, and the feathers below the tail are yellowish. The rump and feathers above the tail are light green.

Underwing Feathers

Males typically have black feathers under their wings, while females typically have greenish or brownish black underwing feathers.

Beak and Feet

Both sexes have a red beak and gray feet.

Distribution and Habitat

The natural range of the black-winged lovebird extends from southern Eritrea to southwestern Ethiopia, where individuals usually inhabit high plains or mountainous regions.

Diet

Typical items in an Abyssinian lovebird's diet include sunflower seeds, corn, apples, and mission figs.