Getting into bird breeding is a big decision, but if you really want to get into it, the cockatiel is a great bird to breed. Here's some information you need to know about cockatiel breeding.
Getting the birds together
Before you can even begin to think about letting your cockatiels breed, you need to make sure you have two birds that are capable of cockatiel breeding. In order to do this, you need to make sure that you have a male and a female bird that are of breeding age. Cockatiels can usually breed when they're nine months old, but if you want to be safe, you can wait until the birds are 12 months old. A bird that is ready to breed, but is still a very young bird, may not take proper care of the eggs or the babies. Really young birds also have a higher incidence of lying eggs that are not properly developed or have developmental problems.
Cockatiel breeding is usually safe after the bird is 18 months old. Several breeders choose to start breeding the birds before they reach 18 months old, but 18 months is a good starting point. There are differing opinions on exactly when a cockatiel is ready for cockatiel breeding. When you're looking for birds to breed, look for strong cockatiels. Weak birds or birds that appear to have physical deficiencies are more likely to produce weak youngsters or offspring that will not survive.
Preparation
You need birds for cockatiel breeding, but you also need cockatiel breeding supplies. The birds need a large cage where they can be placed together and they also need a nest box, which is where the hen will lay her eggs.
When cockatiels are placed in their cockatiel breeding cages, they want the same things that they want when they're not in a breeding cage. They want plenty of food and water and they want a clean place where they can hang out. They also like a lot of light and will react well to natural or artificial light. The birds should also have access to calcium, which helps breed strong eggs and babies and soft food that will be given to the babies when they are born.
Once the cage is set up, allow the birds to mate a few times before you remove the female from the cockatiel breeding cage and place her in the nesting box. The nesting box should be inviting and have soft a covering to keep the eggs protected. You may not see the results of your cockatiel breeding until 1-3 weeks after the birds have been placed together and the hen is ready to lay her eggs.
