The Dutch blue is not a mutation in lovebirds. Dutch blue is a color variety that is the result of selective breeding of lovebirds for certain traits, such as the intensity and distribution of blue coloration.
Lovebirds naturally occur in a range of color variations, including green, blue, and yellow, among others. The blue coloration in lovebirds is the result of the presence of a pigment called melanin in the feathers. Through selective breeding, breeders have been able to produce lovebirds with intense blue coloration, as well as variations in the distribution of the blue color.
Blue series lovebirds have a small peach/orange visor or band across their forehead, along with a white face (or 'cheeks'). As this is the blue series signature trait, all blue series lovebirds will get this. The color density of this visor/band can vary depending on mutations.
Blue series lovebirds have 3 distinct variants:
Dutch blue (Aqua)
Whitefaced blue (Turquoise)
Seagreen (Aqua Turquoise; it is the result of both Aqua x Turquoise).
As this is a recessive gene, both parents need to carry this gene to have their offspring show it visually; if only 1 parent carries this gene, the offspring will be split to it. When a bird is split to a mutation, you cannot visually see it.
Dutch blue lovebirds are a specific color variety that is recognized by many avian organizations. They have a deep, vibrant blue coloration that covers most of their body, with a lighter blue or gray coloration on their head and neck. Dutch blue lovebirds are the result of selective breeding for intense blue coloration and are not the result of a specific genetic mutation.
It's important to note that Dutch Blue lovebirds take about a full year to reach their jewel-like bluish green coloring.
Comments