A condor bitten by the love bug is proving too picky for his mate.

During the throes of passion the male bird, named Homer by his Flamingo Land keepers, has started biting his mate, a three-stone female, called Marge.

Staff at the zoo were so concerned that they separated the pair - but thanks to a new beak guard they have been reunited.

"Homer is now wearing a buffer to protect Marge against the razor sharp beak," said zoo manager Andrew Melton.

"I've heard of safe sex, but this is ridiculous.

"We really had no choice because it was getting to the point where Marge was in danger of becoming seriously injured.

"Homer's beak is normally used to tear the flesh off carcasses so you can imagine how painful it must have been for her."

The buffer, which was created in collaboration with the zoo's vet, was made from a dental gel which hardens when set into any shape, explained Mr Melton.

"This enabled staff to mould it to create a protective barrier over the troublesome beak," he said. "Despite the comical aspect of the condors' dilemma this procedure has enabled the birds to remain together.

"With any luck we'll soon hear the pitter-patter - or rather flitter-flutter - of tiny wings without too much injury to Marge."

The beak guard doesn't affect Homer's other passion ... food. Apparently he is still able to tuck in as well as ever.

Updated: 11:46 Tuesday, June 26, 2001