Birdsong field guide
Black-winged Lovebird
Agapornis taranta
The Black-winged Lovebird is the largest member of the Agapornis genus, distinguished by its vibrant green plumage and preference for high-altitude Afro-alpine environments.
What it sounds like
High-pitched, metallic shrieks and rapid twittering, often delivered in a series while in flight.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- It is the largest of all lovebird species, typically measuring approximately 16.5 centimeters in length.
- The species displays prominent sexual dimorphism; males possess a bright red forehead and orbital ring, while females are entirely green.
- Native to high-elevation regions, they are commonly found at altitudes ranging from 1,800 to 3,200 meters above sea level.
- Their specialized diet consists primarily of juniper berries and wild figs found in the Ethiopian highlands.
- During nesting, females transport nesting material such as bark and leaves by tucking them into their feathers.
Habitat
Montane forests, juniper woodlands, and high-altitude grasslands.
Range
Highlands of Ethiopia and Eritrea.
Similar & commonly confused birds
Black-cheeked LovebirdAgapornis nigrigenisBlack-collared LovebirdAgapornis swindernianusFischer's LovebirdAgapornis fischeriGray-headed LovebirdAgapornis canusLilian's LovebirdAgapornis lilianaeRed-headed LovebirdAgapornis pullariusRosy-faced LovebirdAgapornis roseicollisYellow-collared LovebirdAgapornis personatus
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