To foster a close bond with your lovebird, it's best to start when they are young. Baby lovebirds are much more likely to become affectionate with their owners, forming a strong relationship compared to adult birds. Training methods, like food luring, are very effective. After a short period of mild hunger, offering food by hand will encourage the bird to come to you, gradually building trust and affection.
How to Make Your Lovebird Affectionate
1. Generally, the easiest way to bond with a lovebird is to acquire it as a baby. Raising a lovebird from a young age allows it to readily form a close relationship with you, which also makes it more likely to be affectionate. Adult birds, on the other hand, may not bond with their owner as easily.
2. Food inducement is a key technique. Remove the food dish for a couple of feedings to create a little hunger. Then, place the bird's food in your hand and slowly move closer. At first, the bird might avoid you or cautiously nibble. When it does, pull your hand back. Then, try gently approaching again. It might take many attempts but be patient. The bird will eventually get the courage to eat from your hand.
3. Spend a lot of time with your lovebird, talking, and playing to help form a close bond and reduce any sense of distance. Frequently pet your lovebird so it becomes comfortable with you. Don't grab at the bird, instead allow it to hop onto your hand on its own. During training, never scold or hit your bird. If it does not understand a command, be patient and teach it repeatedly.