Regarding the dimensions of the nest boxes, the following are considered ideal (for budgies). An entrance hole of about 1 1/2 inches (4 cm) in diameter is recommended, along with minimum inside dimensions of a 6 x 6 in (l5 x 15cm) floor and a height of 10 inches (25cm). The floor of the nest box is filled completely with a nest base - this has a gradually sloping bowl shape inside it, with a diameter of about 5 inches (12cm). You can put a handful of sawdust, in here. While some birds push this out of the cage gradually, others actually appreciate it. In the wild, budgies like having rotten wood and/or other similar materials in their nest holes as has been commonly observed. Size of the nest box Budgie Breeding Ideal nest box If you attach the nest box outside the cage, make sure you do it well. Even the slightest mistake on your part can spell disaster. Vehicles, thundering down a road in the vicinity, can also have a harmful effect. Before the breeding season, get everything straightened, complete the paperwork, and check the lighting, heating and thermostat inside the cage. Keep the supplies ready, and hang a cuttlebone in front of the cage. You can also hang a stalk of spray millet in the vicinity of the nest. The idea is to draw a hen to the nest, so that she can get acquainted with the cock. And remember, your birds must never be out of food. You'll also have the young ones to consider, and they are voracious eaters, sometimes consuming more food than their body weight. And don't forget to supply fresh water. It is as important as good food. Budgie Breeding At times you might find your budgie courting its own image in the mirror. When you buy your first stock When you do this, just remember, quality rates over quantity, always. Instead of getting a few cheap specimens, get a few well-bred birds. Many simply buy a whole lot of birds to fill up their aviary, and make it look colorful. But bear in mind that the quality of the initial stock has an effect on the future results. Birds with defects should not be chosen. This includes birds that are sick, have deformed feet, imperfect plumage etc. When you choose a mate for your budgie, make sure you get a younger one. Those who are very particular about a particular trait, like for example the color, should be taken into account before breeding. Similarly, it has been suggested that those interested in raising the birds on a commercial basis should avoid inbreeding. Getting the pair from two different pet stores is one way Choosing pairs for breeding Budgie Breeding Budgies are often seen sitting together, preening each other, or rubbing beaks to ensure that the birds are genetically different. |