A lovebird (Psittaciformes: Agapornis) from the Plio-Pleistocene Kromdraai B locality, South Africa

A fossil humerus from the Plio-Pleistocene Kromdraai B locality in South Africa confirms the presence of lovebirds (Agapornis) during the early Pleistocene, around 1.95 million years ago. This specimen differs morphologically and is slightly smaller than extant lovebird species, suggesting it represents an extinct taxon. The discovery supports the idea that the paleohabitat around Kromdraai B, where Australopithecus robustus lived, was a mosaic of wooded or forested habitats. Lovebirds' modern preference for such environments aligns with mammalian-based evidence, providing insights into the ecological context of early hominid habitation.

Stidham, T. A. (2010). A lovebird (Psittaciformes: Agapornis) from the Plio-Pleistocene Kromdraai B locality, South Africa. South African Journal of Science, 105(3/4). https://doi.org/10.4102/sajs.v105i3/4.70