This Valentine's Day was an extra special occasion for these lovebirds.

A critically-endangered bird species, native only to Victoria, has recorded a bumper breeding season, bringing it one step closer to staving off extinction.

Thirty-six Helmeted Honeyeater couples in Melbourne's east have raised 61 fledglings so far, with hope for more before the end of the breeding season in March.

Helmeted Honeyeater. Credit:Justin McManus

Of the 36 couples, 24 birds are first-time parents.