How do I introduce my new baby Lovebird to my first one?

[Daneeka Peets]

I've had my first lovebird, a Lime Fischer Lovebird named Peppi for a year and a half now, and she's quite attached to me.
(When I use 'she' i'm not entirely sure because I havent been given a certain answer)
She is quite attached to me, and bitey when it comes to anyone else. I've been working a lot recently and have decided to get her a friend/mate so she doesn't become lonely.
I brought home a baby Peachface lovebird who is still a bit scared of me and her surroundings, which I understand as she is only used to being with other birds and is still young.
I have two cages as I know that putting them together straight away would be disastrous. I put the cages together and they do like talking to eachother. The baby is really interested in my older one, she really wants to be around her or near her all the time. And my older one seems to be interested, but indifferent and more likely to seek my attention.
I've never introduced lovebirds before. I love my Peppi, but she's a bit bitey and definitely dominant at times and worry she may hurt the baby.
I've read that you keep their cages side-by-side for a while for them to get used to eachother, then have them out together and see how they behave. Once you've established that they're okay, then put them in the same cage (Which is the ultimate goal)
I'm still trying to get the baby used to me, so she won't fly away and be used to getting touched by me. Once that's happened, i'll start introducing them further.

I'm seeking advice here, to do the best I can while the baby is still young and healthy. I don't want ANYONE to get hurt and I really want them to get along. Even to just be friends.So if anyone has any experience or advice they can offer, please help!

 

[Alex]

Hi,
So far you are doing the right thing, keeping them in separate cages next to each other allows them to socialise and get used to each other. I do recommend, if you haven't done so already to get your new bird a full health check before introducing it. Your new bird will be very stressed as it has been put in a completely new environment, however in time, this will pass and you will be able to handle it
There will be some fighting once they are put together, but this is only to establish dominance, this passes in a matter of weeks and is perfectly normal. It is best just to let them do this, but any full on fighting should be discouraged. It should only be light pecking and trying to stand taller.
I hope this helped. and keep doing what your doing, It's the right thing to do!

Please also take the advise of the first answer, it is very very true!
good luck

 

[Caiti]

Be so, SO careful doing this, and take it as slowly as possible. Even if it takes months.

Lovies will often kill a new addition so you need to really take your time doing this. And unfortunately even that won't necessarily guarantee anything.

Make sure that you always give attention to your Peppi FIRST. In her eyes, this means that she's still the most important to you, and this is hugely important to help prevent her from getting jealous. Parrot envy can be quite nasty. Of course, don't slack on socialising and caring for your new fellow, but remember - Peppi is the head honcho and will need even more attention now, and much cuddling and playing and treats and new toys.

Do NOT let them out together for as long as you can stand it. Even after, unless you're 100% positive they've taken well to one another, don't let them out without someone watching them like a hawk. Even having your new little guy in a different cage in the same room will be company for her; they don't need to be rushed thankfully.