Agapornis Fischeri Dark eye clear green, blue, blue1blue2 DEC mutations

Agapornis fischeri DEC (Dark Eye Clear) appears at first glance to resemble the NSL ino mutation series described in the previous article. However, there are several significant differences, which is why this mutation is considered a separate allele from the earlier NSL ino.

Both DEC and NSL ino are melanin-reduction mutations (forms of albinism), but they differ in the distribution of pigment. In Fischeri NSL ino, black pigment is entirely reduced, whereas in DEC, pigment reduction occurs only in the feathers.

As a result, the eyes, skin, feet, and nails of the DEC Fischeri remain similar in appearance to those of wild-type lovebirds. To understand its characteristics further, I will explain them in more detail to help guide you in breeding and show selection.

Characteristics of Agapornis fischeri Green DEC (Dark Eye Clear)

The Green DEC (Dark Eye Clear) lovebird has a stunning and harmonious color pattern, giving it a bright and attractive appearance. The forehead, crown, and cheeks are dominated by a brilliant orange that gradually transitions to yellow toward the back of the head and neck. The chin, throat, and upper chest are also adorned with a similar orange tone, creating a unified look. Its dark brown eyes with white eye-rings add an interesting contrast, while its red beak complements the vibrant colors of the head.

The body of this lovebird is even more striking with a blend of yellow on the lower chest, flanks, abdomen, and vent area. The bright yellow body and wing feathers create a clean and fresh impression, while the white accents on the primary flight feathers add elegance when the bird is in flight. Matching yellow wing coverts further enhance the beauty of its upper body.

The tail and undertail coverts also present a unique color combination. The light purple coloration of the rump and upper tail coverts adds a touch of elegance, while the tail feathers are mostly yellow with white tips and brilliant orange-yellow markings on the secondary tail feathers. These details increase the bird’s overall appeal, further highlighted by its gray legs and slightly darker nails, creating a subtle yet eye-catching contrast.

Characteristics of Agapornis fischeri Blue DEC (Dark Eye Clear)

The Blue DEC (Dark Eye Clear) lovebird radiates beauty with its predominantly white coloration, giving it a clean and bright appearance. The forehead, crown, and cheeks are primarily white, creating a light and elegant look in the head region. The chin, throat, and upper chest are also white, contributing to a harmonious upper-body appearance. The contrast of dark brown eyes with striking white eye-rings gives it a distinctive charm, while the horn-colored beak with a hint of soft pink adds a gentle touch.

The lower body remains consistent with white on the lower chest, flanks, abdomen, and vent. The white body and wing feathers enhance the impression of graceful simplicity, complemented by the similarly colored flight feathers and wing coverts. The dominant white color throughout the body produces a highly harmonious appearance, especially when the bird is in motion or in flight.

Contrasting details appear in the mauve-colored rump and upper tail coverts, offering an elegant accent to the overall look. The mostly white tail feathers with white tips create a bright, clean appearance in harmony with the rest of the body. The gray legs and darker nails provide a beautiful finishing touch, completing the Blue DEC lovebird’s simple yet captivating appearance.

Characteristics of Agapornis fischeri Blue1Blue2 DEC (Dark Eye Clear)

The Blue1Blue2 DEC (Dark Eye Clear) lovebird is a DEC variant combined with the parblue mutation. The bright yellow-orange forehead gives the head a fresh impression, followed by a light yellow crown and nape that gently transition into the neck. Light yellow-orange cheeks fading into pale yellow at the neck further emphasize the natural facial appearance. The chin, throat, and upper chest are also decorated with light yellow-orange hues blending smoothly with the head, giving a bright and soft impression. The dark brown eyes with white eye-rings offer strong contrast, while the lighter-colored beak adds a subtle softness to the face.

Continuing with the light yellow theme, the lower chest, flanks, abdomen, and vent area share similar tones, maintaining a consistent, bright, and gentle appearance. The light yellow body and wing feathers further enhance the harmony of this bird's coloration. On the primary flight feathers, the combination of light yellow outer webs and white inner webs gives a clean, elegant look, especially during flight. Light yellow wing coverts reinforce the overall cohesion of its plumage.

The back of the bird stands out with unique accents—light blue rump and upper tail coverts add an elegant contrast. The light yellow undertail coverts and tail feathers with white tips create a light and bright finish. Light yellow-orange spot patterns on the secondary tail feathers, bordered by white zones, add to the appeal. With gray legs and darker nails, this bird embodies a simple yet striking beauty, completing a graceful and refined appearance.

DEC (Dark Eye Clear) Genetic Mutation

The Green DEC mutation in lovebirds follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern, meaning that both parents must carry the gene for offspring to exhibit this coloration. In lovebirds with this mutation, nearly all eumelanin in the feathers disappears, resulting in a very bright appearance. However, soft tissues such as the eyes, beak, feet, and nails remain unaffected.