Are you looking for a colorful and friendly pet bird? Look no further than the grey-headed lovebird! These small parrots are native to Africa, including Madagascar, and are known for their predominantly green feathers and distinctive grey heads. They make great aviary birds and are popular in aviculture. But there’s much more to these birds than just their unique appearance – some even have a yellow coloration!
Grey-headed lovebirds are social parrots that communicate with each other through a variety of calls and vocalizations. In the wild, they are often seen in pairs or small flocks, flying through the trees in search of food. These playful birds can also thrive in an aviary setting, making them popular in aviculture. With their vibrant body feathers, they add a splash of color to any collection.
If you’re considering bringing a grey-headed lovebird, also known as Madagascar lovebird, into your home as a pet parrot, you’ll be pleased to know that they are relatively easy to care for in aviculture. With proper nutrition, plenty of exercise, and regular interaction with their owners, these birds with beautiful body feathers can thrive in captivity. Plus, their friendly nature makes them great companions for both adults and children alike.
But where can you adopt or buy a grey-headed lovebird? Many reputable breeders and pet stores specialize in exotic birds like these, including the Madagascar lovebirds. Do your research ahead of time to ensure that you’re getting your parrot from a trusted source who follows ethical breeding practices. The grey-headed lovebird is known for its blue tail, making it a unique addition to any bird lover’s collection.
In the following sections of this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into the world of grey-headed lovebirds – from their natural habitat in Africa to tips on how to care for them as pets. If you’re a parrot enthusiast, you’ll be interested to know that these lovebirds are often mistaken for small parrots due to their vibrant colors and playful personalities. While they are native to Africa, some species have been introduced to Madagascar where they have adapted well to their new environment. One unique feature of these lovebirds is their short, square-shaped tail which sets them apart from other bird species. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn more about these fascinating feathered friends!
Here is a table of information about the grey-headed lovebird:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Scientific name | Agapornis canus |
Common name | Grey-headed lovebird |
Size | 13 cm (5.1 in) |
Weight | 35 g (1.2 oz) |
Lifespan | 25-30 years |
Origin | Africa |
Diet | Fruit, vegetables, seeds, and pellets |
Behavior | Social, playful, and intelligent |
Conservation status | Least concern |
Physical appearance:
- The grey-headed lovebird is a small, parrot-like bird with a mostly green body.
- It has a grey head and neck, and a yellow belly.
- The male and female are similar in appearance.
Behavior:
- Grey-headed lovebirds are social birds and prefer to live in flocks.
- They are also very playful and affectionate.
- They can be trained to perform tricks.
Care requirements:
- Grey-headed lovebirds require a spacious cage with plenty of perches and toys.
- They should be fed a diet of fruit, vegetables, seeds, and pellets.
- They should also have access to fresh water at all times.
Temperament:
- Grey-headed lovebirds are generally docile and gentle birds.
- However, they can be territorial and aggressive towards other birds.
Pros and cons of owning a grey-headed lovebird:
Pros:
- Beautiful and intelligent birds
- Can be trained to perform tricks
- Can live for up to 30 years
- Can be loving and affectionate companions
Cons:
- Need a large cage and plenty of space to fly
- Can be noisy
- Can be destructive if bored or not properly stimulated
- Can be expensive to care for
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to own a grey-headed lovebird is a personal one. If you are prepared to provide the bird with the proper care, then a grey-headed lovebird can make a wonderful addition to your family.
General Information about Grey-Headed Lovebird: Profile and Facts

Small but Mighty Parrots
Grey-headed lovebirds are small parrots that have a big personality. They are native to Africa, specifically the woodlands and savannas of Tanzania, Kenya, and Somalia. These birds are known for their striking appearance, with a distinctive grey head, green body, and vibrant red beak. Despite their small size (only 6 inches long), these birds can live up to 20 years in captivity when given proper care. They are not found in Madagascar, but they have a unique long tail that makes them stand out among other parrots.
Social Creatures
Grey-headed lovebirds, also known as parrots, are social creatures that thrive in flocks. In the wild, they are often seen flying together in groups of 10 to 20 birds in Madagascar. As pets, they bond closely with their owners and enjoy spending time outside of their cages for playtime or cuddles. Owners should provide plenty of toys and opportunities for interaction to keep these intelligent birds stimulated and admire their beautiful tail feathers.
Playful Personalities
One of the most endearing traits of grey-headed lovebirds, a type of parrot, is their playful nature. These birds love to explore their surroundings and interact with humans or other animals around them. They are also known for being quite acrobatic, often using their tail feathers to balance while climbing up ropes or hanging upside down from perches. Grey-headed lovebirds can also be taught to mimic sounds and words if trained properly.
Omnivorous Diet
Grey-headed lovebirds, known for their distinctive grey head and green body, have a long tail that helps them balance while perching. They have an omnivorous diet consisting of fruits, seeds, grains, insects, and even small amounts of protein such as cooked chicken or eggs. In captivity, owners should provide a varied diet that includes fresh fruits such as apples or berries along with high-quality seed mixes designed specifically for parrots.
Popular Pets
Due to their small size, colorful plumage, friendly nature, and playful personalities, grey-headed lovebirds (also known as parrots) make popular pets among bird enthusiasts. However, before adopting one it’s important to consider the commitment of time, money, and care required to keep them happy and healthy. These parrots require a spacious cage with plenty of room to move around, daily exercise outside of their cage, a varied diet, and regular veterinary check-ups.
See also Black-Winged Lovebird: Fascinating Facts & Stunning Photos [Meaning Explained]
Personality Traits of Grey-Headed Lovebird

Playful and Curious Nature
Grey-headed lovebirds, also known as parrots, are known for their playful and curious nature. They love to explore their surroundings, play with toys, and interact with their owners. These birds have a lot of energy and need plenty of mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Providing them with toys that encourage exploration, such as puzzles or foraging toys, can help satisfy their curiosity.
Social Birds
Grey-headed lovebirds, also known as grey-headed parrots, are highly social birds that thrive in pairs or small flocks. In the wild, they form strong bonds with other parrots and spend most of their time interacting with each other. As pets, these birds require social interaction to stay happy and healthy. Owners should consider getting a pair of grey-headed lovebirds, or grey-headed parrots, so they can keep each other company when the owner is not around.
Intelligent Birds
These lovebirds, also known as grey-headed parrots, are intelligent creatures that can be trained to perform tricks and mimic sounds. With patience and consistency, owners can teach their parrots a variety of tricks such as waving, playing dead, or even retrieving objects on command. They also have an impressive ability to mimic sounds such as whistling tunes or imitating human speech.
Gentle and Affectionate Towards Their Owners
Grey-headed lovebirds, also known as parrots, are generally gentle and affectionate towards their owners. They enjoy cuddling up on shoulders or laps while watching TV or reading a book. These parrots crave attention from their owners but also respect personal space boundaries when needed.
Strong Bonding Tendency
One unique personality trait of grey-headed lovebirds, a type of parrot, is their tendency to bond strongly with one person which can lead to jealousy towards others. This means that if an owner spends more time with another person than the bird’s primary caregiver, the parrot may become upset or even aggressive towards that person out of jealousy.
Energetic Birds That Require Plenty Of Exercise And Mental Stimulation
Despite their small size, grey-headed lovebirds are energetic birds that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Owners should provide them with ample space to fly around and play, as well as a variety of toys to keep them entertained. It is important to note that these birds have high metabolisms and require a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein to maintain their energy levels.
Guide to Caring for Grey-Headed Lovebird: Habitat and Diet Needs

Spacious Cage for Flying and Playing
Grey-headed lovebirds are very active birds that require a lot of space to fly and play. Therefore, it is essential to provide them with a spacious cage that allows them to move around freely. The minimum size of the cage should be 24 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 24 inches high. However, if you have more than one bird, you will need a larger cage.
In addition to size, the cage should also have horizontal bars that allow the birds to climb and perch easily. The spacing between the bars should be no more than half an inch apart as lovebirds can escape through small gaps. It’s also important to provide your grey-headed lovebirds with enough toys, perches, swings, and other accessories inside their cage for entertainment.
Balanced Diet with Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
A balanced diet is crucial for grey-headed lovebirds’ health as they require a variety of nutrients from different food sources. A good diet includes fresh fruits such as apples, bananas, grapes, and melons; vegetables like broccoli, and carrots; seeds like sunflower seeds; and pellets formulated specifically for lovebirds.
It’s important to note that while seeds are an essential part of the Madagascar lovebirds’ diet, they shouldn’t make up more than 20% of their daily intake because they are high in fat content but low in nutritional value. Pellets are a great source of vitamins and minerals for this pale grey lovebird species but should not replace fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet.
Regular Cleaning Routine
Cleaning your grey-headed lovebird’s cage regularly is crucial in preventing bacterial infections or mold growth which can cause respiratory problems in birds. You should clean the cage at least once a week by removing all debris from the bottom tray or grate using mild soap or disinfectant solution diluted with water.
Make sure you rinse the cage thoroughly with water to remove any soap residue, especially when cleaning the cage of your Madagascar lovebird, a pale grey lovebird species. You should also disinfect all toys, perches, and accessories to prevent the spread of disease among your beloved Madagascar lovebird.
Socialization and Exercise
Grey-headed lovebirds are social birds that thrive in pairs or small groups. If you only have one bird, you will need to spend more time interacting with it. Interacting with your bird can include talking, singing, whistling, or playing games like fetch.
It’s essential to provide your grey-headed lovebirds with regular exercise outside of their cage to promote physical and mental health. You can do this by allowing them to fly around a secure room or providing them with a play gym outside of their cage.
Sedentary Lifestyle and Conservation Status of Grey-Headed Lovebird

Grey-Headed Lovebirds: Native to Wooded Habitats
Grey-headed lovebirds are native to Africa and can be found in wooded habitats. These birds usually reside in savannas, woodlands, and forests where they can find food, shelter, and nesting sites. They are small parrots with a grey head, green wings, and a yellowish-green body.
Their natural habitat is being threatened due to deforestation and habitat loss. As human populations continue to grow, more land is cleared for agriculture or urbanization purposes. This has led to the fragmentation of their habitat, making it difficult for them to find suitable nesting sites or food sources.
The Conservation Status of Grey-Headed Lovebirds: Closely Monitored by Organizations
Despite the threats to their habitat, grey-headed lovebirds are currently classified as “least concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, this doesn’t mean that they are not at risk of becoming endangered in the future.
Conservation organizations closely monitor the conservation status of grey-headed lovebirds to ensure their population remains stable. These organizations work towards protecting their natural habitat from further destruction by advocating for better land-use policies or creating protected areas where these birds can thrive.
Sedentary Lifestyle: Staying in One Area for an Extended Period
Grey-headed lovebirds have a sedentary lifestyle which means they do not migrate and stay in one area for an extended period. They prefer staying close to their nesting sites where they can find food easily. Their diet mainly consists of seeds, fruits, berries, and insects.
Their sedentary lifestyle makes them vulnerable to changes in their environment such as deforestation or droughts. If their nesting site is destroyed or if there is a shortage of food sources in their area due to climate change, their population can decline rapidly.
To sum up, the grey-headed lovebird is a small parrot found in wooded habitats in Africa. Although they are currently classified as “least concern” by the IUCN, their natural habitat is being threatened due to deforestation and habitat loss. Their sedentary lifestyle makes them vulnerable to changes in their environment, making it important for conservation organizations to closely monitor their population.
Behaviour in the Wild: Feeding and Socializing of Grey-Headed Lovebird

Feeding Habits of Grey-Headed Lovebirds
Grey-headed lovebirds are primarily seed-eaters. They feed on a variety of seeds, including millet, sunflower seeds, and maize. In addition to seeds, they also eat fruits and insects. In the wild, grey-headed lovebirds forage on the ground or in trees for food.
During the breeding season, grey-headed lovebirds may change their diet slightly to ensure they get enough protein to support egg production and chick rearing. They will consume more insects during this time.
In captivity, it is important to provide your grey-headed lovebird with a balanced diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables as well as a high-quality seed mix. Avoid feeding them avocado, chocolate, or caffeine-containing foods as these can be toxic to birds.
Breeding Habits of Grey-Headed Lovebirds
Grey-headed lovebirds form monogamous pairs during breeding season. They build nests in tree cavities using twigs and other plant materials. Both male and female birds take turns incubating the eggs while the other goes out foraging for food.
After hatching, both parents continue to care for their chicks by feeding them regurgitated food until they are old enough to fledge (usually around 5 weeks old). Once fledged, young grey-headed lovebirds will remain with their parents for several weeks before becoming independent.
Social Behavior of Grey-Headed Lovebirds
Grey-headed lovebirds are social birds that live in flocks of up to 30 individuals. Within these flocks, there is usually a dominant pair that leads the group.
In the wild, grey-headed lovebirds communicate with each other through a variety of calls and body language. Their vocalizations include chattering sounds when feeding or flying together as well as alarm calls when predators are nearby.
In captivity, it is important to provide your grey-headed lovebird with ample socialization opportunities. They enjoy interacting with their owners and other birds, so consider housing them in pairs or small groups if possible.
Common Behavioral Issues
If your grey-headed lovebird is displaying aggressive behavior, it could be due to a variety of reasons such as lack of socialization, hormonal changes during breeding season, or illness. Consult with an avian veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues and work on training techniques to help curb aggressive behavior.
Another common issue among pet birds is feather plucking. Feather plucking can be caused by stress, boredom, or medical conditions such as skin infections or allergies. Provide your bird with plenty of toys and socialization opportunities to keep them stimulated and consult with an avian veterinarian if feather plucking persists.
Appearance and Sounds of Grey-Headed Lovebird

Grey-Headed Lovebirds Have a Unique Look
The grey-headed lovebird is a small parrot that has a predominantly green plumage with a grey head and neck. These birds have a distinctive red beak, which is perfect for cracking open seeds and nuts. They also have a yellow patch on their forehead, which adds to their unique appearance.
In addition to their colorful feathers, grey-headed lovebirds have dark green wings with blue primary feathers. Their size is also notable, measuring around 6 inches in length and weighing about 50 grams. Despite their small size, they are still easy to spot due to their vibrant colors.
The Sounds of Grey-Headed Lovebirds
Grey-headed lovebirds are known for their loud, high-pitched calls that can be heard from a distance. They use these calls to communicate with other members of their flock or to warn others of potential dangers.
Aside from the loud calls, these birds also make soft chattering sounds while feeding or communicating with their mates. The chattering sound is often accompanied by head-bobbing movements as they socialize with one another.
Interestingly enough, the sounds made by grey-headed lovebirds vary depending on the time of day. During the morning hours, you may hear them making more noise than usual as they greet each other and start their day.
Overall, the unique appearance and sounds of grey-headed lovebirds make them an interesting addition to any bird enthusiast’s collection.
How Much Do Grey-Headed Lovebirds Cost?
If you’re interested in owning a grey-headed lovebird as a pet, you’ll need to know how much they cost. On average, these birds can range anywhere from $200-$500 depending on where you purchase them from.
It’s important to note that purchasing a bird isn’t just about the initial cost – there are ongoing expenses such as food, toys, and vet bills that need to be taken into consideration. Before buying a grey-headed lovebird, make sure you have the time and resources to properly care for them.
The Primitive Nature of Grey-Headed Lovebird in the Agapornis Genus

Grey-Headed Lovebirds: A Unique Species in the Agapornis Genus
The grey-headed lovebird, also known as Agapornis canus, is a small parrot that belongs to the genus Agapornis. This genus comprises nine species native to Africa and Madagascar. Among these species, the grey-headed lovebird stands out for its primitive nature compared to other members of the genus.
Grey-headed lovebirds are unique because they have adapted to survive in harsh environmental conditions such as cold weather. They have thick body feathers that help them stay warm during chilly nights. They have evolved to feed on grass seeds, leaf fragments, and grass stems that are abundant even in arid regions.
Aviculture and Grey-Headed Lovebirds
Grey-headed lovebirds are popular among aviculturists due to their hardiness and adaptability. These birds can thrive in outdoor aviaries throughout the year without requiring special heating or cooling systems. Moreover, their diet is relatively easy to provide since it consists mainly of grass seeds and greens.
In captivity, grey-headed lovebirds can become quite tame with proper socialization and training. They are intelligent birds that enjoy playing with toys and interacting with their owners. However, like all parrots, they require a lot of attention and care from their human companions.
Physical Characteristics of Adult Male Grey-Headed Lovebirds
One of the most distinctive features of adult male grey-headed lovebirds is their grey head and neck feathers. These feathers contrast sharply with their bright green bodies and wings. Male grey-headed lovebirds have a red beak that adds further coloration to their appearance.
Like all members of the genus Agapornis, grey-headed lovebirds have strong feet that enable them to climb branches easily. Their tails are short and square-shaped, which helps them maneuver through thick vegetation. Overall, the grey-headed lovebird is an attractive and unique species that has captured the attention of bird enthusiasts worldwide.
Speech and Vocalizations of Grey-Headed Lovebird

Mimicking Abilities
Grey-headed lovebirds are known for their incredible ability to mimic human speech and other sounds. This is a trait that they share with many other parrot species, but what sets them apart is the clarity of their mimicry. They can learn to replicate words and phrases with impressive accuracy, making them popular pets among bird enthusiasts.
Wide Range of Vocalizations
In addition to their mimicking abilities, grey-headed lovebirds have a wide range of vocalizations that they use to communicate with each other and express themselves. These vocalizations include whistles, squawks, chirps, and various other sounds. Each sound has its meaning, and by combining different sounds, grey-headed lovebirds can create complex messages.
One interesting thing about grey-headed lovebirds is that they have distinct vocalizations for different times of day. For example, during the morning hours when they are most active, they tend to make more noise than at night when they are resting.
Social Communication
Grey-headed lovebirds are social creatures that use vocalizations as a means of communication within their flock. They use these sounds to establish dominance hierarchies, attract mates, warn others of danger or predators in the area, and coordinate group activities such as feeding or flying.
When communicating with each other through vocalization, grey-headed lovebirds exhibit a remarkable level of understanding. They seem to be able to recognize individual birds within their flock based on their unique calls and respond accordingly.
Emotional Expression
Grey-headed lovebirds can also use their vocalizations to express emotions such as excitement or fear. For example, when playing with toys or interacting with humans who they like or dislike; it’s not uncommon for them to emit high-pitched squeals indicating happiness or low growls expressing displeasure respectively.
Owners need to pay close attention to the tone of their grey-headed lovebird’s vocalizations to understand their emotions. This is especially important when trying to determine if they are feeling stressed or anxious, as these birds can be prone to feather plucking and other destructive behaviors when they are not happy.
Training
Some owners train their grey-headed lovebirds to speak specific words or phrases. With patience and persistence, it is possible to teach them a wide variety of words and even short sentences. The key is to start with simple sounds and build up gradually over time.
Owners need to provide plenty of opportunities for their grey-headed lovebirds to vocalize as it is a natural and essential part of their behavior. Owners should also make sure that the bird has access to toys, perches, and other items that will encourage them to make noise.
Subspecies and Distribution of Grey-Headed Lovebird

Lovebird Species: Grey-Headed Lovebirds
Grey-headed lovebirds are a species of lovebird that belong to the Agapornis genus. They are small, colorful parrots that are native to Africa. The scientific name of grey-headed lovebirds is Agapornis canus.
These birds are known for their striking appearance, with a grey head and neck, green body, and bright red beak. They have a playful and affectionate nature, which makes them popular pets among bird lovers.
Two Subspecies of Grey-Headed Lovebirds
There are two subspecies of grey-headed lovebirds: Agapornis canus canus and Agapornis canus ablectaneus.
Agapornis canus is found in Tanzania, while Agapornis canus ablectaneus is found in Kenya. These two subspecies have some physical differences, such as the size and shape of their beaks.
Habitat Preferences
Grey-headed lovebirds prefer dry savannas and woodlands, and they are often found near water sources such as rivers and lakes. They feed on seeds, fruits, flowers, and insects.
In the wild, these birds form strong pair bonds with their mates. They build nests in tree cavities or termite mounds using twigs, leaves, feathers, and other materials they find nearby.
Threats to Survival
The population of grey-headed lovebirds is currently stable; however, habitat loss due to deforestation remains a potential threat to their survival. Additionally capture for the pet trade poses another potential threat to this species’ existence.
To help protect these beautiful birds from extinction we all must do our part by supporting conservation efforts aimed at preserving their natural habitats.
Overall it’s clear that grey-headed lovebirds are fascinating creatures with unique characteristics. Whether you’re interested in their physical appearance, habitat preferences, or potential threats to their survival, there’s no denying that these birds are truly remarkable.
Members Only Resources for Grey-Headed Lovebird Enthusiasts

Exclusive Resources Offered by Grey-Headed Lovebird Breeders
Grey-headed lovebirds are a popular bird species among enthusiasts, and breeders of this beautiful bird offer exclusive resources to those who want to learn more about them. These resources provide valuable information on breeding pairs, genetic data, and breeding tips that can help enthusiasts raise healthy and happy birds. By becoming a member of a breeder association or club, you can access these members-only resources.
Breeders of grey-headed lovebirds have years of experience breeding this species and know how to care for them properly. They have extensive knowledge about the genetics of these birds, which they use to produce strong and healthy offspring. As an enthusiast, you can benefit from their expertise by accessing their members-only resources.
Publications for Grey-Headed Lovebird Enthusiasts
Publications such as specialized magazines and newsletters provide valuable information on grey-headed lovebirds. These publications often include articles written by experts in the field or experienced breeders who share their knowledge with readers. They cover topics such as health issues, feeding tips, behavioral patterns, habitat requirements, etc.
These publications also feature stunning photographs of grey-headed lovebirds in their natural habitats or the homes of enthusiasts. The images showcase the beauty of these birds and inspire readers to learn more about them.
Breeder Associations for Grey-Headed Lovebird Enthusiasts
Joining a breeder association is another way to gain access to members-only resources and connect with other enthusiasts. These associations provide forums where members can discuss various aspects related to raising grey-headed lovebirds. Members can exchange ideas on breeding techniques, share experiences of caring for their pets, or ask questions related to any difficulties they are facing while raising these birds.
Breeder associations also organize events like shows or competitions where members can showcase their grey-headed lovebirds. These events provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to meet other like-minded people and learn more about the different varieties of grey-headed lovebirds.
The Fascinating World of Grey-Headed Lovebird

The grey-headed lovebird is a unique and captivating bird that has captured the hearts of many bird enthusiasts. With its striking appearance, charming personality, and distinct vocalizations, it’s no wonder why this bird has become a popular choice for pet owners.
Throughout this article, we’ve explored various aspects of the grey-headed lovebird, including its general information and profile, personality traits, care needs, behavior in the wild, appearance and sounds, subspecies, and distribution. We’ve also discussed the primitive nature of this bird in the Agapornis genus as well as its sedentary lifestyle and conservation status.
Overall, it’s clear that the grey-headed lovebird is a fascinating creature with much to offer. If you’re considering adding one to your family or already have one as a pet, it’s important to understand their care needs to ensure they remain healthy and happy.
Here are some FAQs about grey-headed lovebirds:
FAQ 1: What kind of habitat do grey-headed lovebirds need?
Grey-headed lovebirds require a spacious cage with plenty of room for flying and playing. They also need toys for mental stimulation and exercise. In terms of temperature and humidity levels, they prefer warm environments with moderate humidity levels.
FAQ 2: What should I feed my grey-headed lovebird?
A balanced diet for your grey-headed lovebird includes high-quality pellets supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods high in fat or sugar as these can lead to health problems such as obesity.
FAQ 3: Do grey-headed lovebirds make good pets?
Yes! Grey-headed lovebirds have charming personalities that make them great pets for those willing to put in the time and effort needed to care for them properly.
FAQ 4: How often should I clean my grey-headed lovebird’s cage?
It’s important to clean your bird’s cage at least once a week to maintain proper hygiene and prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria.
FAQ 5: Can grey-headed lovebirds talk?
While they are not known for their talking abilities, grey-headed lovebirds can learn to mimic sounds and some basic words with consistent training.
FAQ 6: How long do grey-headed lovebirds live?
Grey-headed lovebirds have an average lifespan of around 10-15 years in captivity with proper care.
FAQ 7: Are grey-headed lovebirds endangered?
While they are not currently considered endangered, habitat loss and the pet trade pose threats to wild populations. It’s important to ensure that any grey-headed lovebird you purchase is from a reputable breeder who practices ethical breeding methods.