Now, we all know that cockatiels are a fascinating species. Hence, we all want to breed them, especially after knowing that they might be an endangered species already.
However, we cannot do so because we do not know how to properly breed them. When breeding, it is important to make sure that the chicks would turn out healthy and the parents are capable of taking care of them.
Because of this, we need to research and study first everything about cockatiel breeding.
Well, you do not need to worry because I will tell you everything you need to know about cockatiel breeding. So, what are we waiting for?
Let’s dig in!
Why Breed Cockatiels?
The action of breeding cockatiels can result in a variety of potential benefits.
It should come as no surprise that a large number of bird owners are drawn to the experience of raising their own young, which brings with it the pleasure of witnessing the beginning of a new life and the fulfillment of knowing that one’s creation is both lovely and significant.
However, before diving headfirst into the world of cockatiel breeding, there are a few essential things to take into consideration.
The first question you need to ask yourself is, “Why do I want to breed cockatiels?” Cockatiels are a somewhat rare bird.
Are you interested in making money from it? to increase the number of birds that are part of your own flock? To produce a one-of-a-kind species or color mutation with the stock you already have?
Understanding the benefits and drawbacks associated with each of these reasons will help ensure that any decision on breeding will be well-informed and made in a responsible manner.
Choosing The Right Breeding Pair
After you’ve given some thought to why you want to produce cockatiels, the next step is to select an ideal breeding pair to get started.
When choosing a pairing, it is essential to recognize that healthy genetics should always take precedence above aesthetic qualities like color markings.
Choosing visually appealing birds without taking into consideration their genetic background may lead to health problems in the long run.
It is also crucial that both parents in a chosen couple exhibit a decent temperament.
Be on the lookout for warning indications such as hostility or shyness, as these behaviors could indicate issues in subsequent generations.
In addition, before making any decisions, you should ensure that all potential pairs have been examined by an avian veterinarian.
Avian veterinarians are able to provide beneficial advice on identifying suitable candidates in addition to providing insight into mating behaviors between different species or genders.
Creating A Suitable Environment For Breeding
After an appropriate couple has been chosen, the next step, which should be the top priority, is to create an atmosphere that is conducive to successful breeding.
You will need sufficient space – preferably, two separate cages positioned side-by-side where each parent may escape to when necessary – in addition to providing a large number of toys and activities that are tailored specifically for cockatoos (including mirrors).
Nesting materials, such as wood shavings, sawdust, or straw, should be added to each enclosure, and the temperature of the enclosures should be maintained at a relatively constant level during the course of the day.
The relative humidity level should be maintained at approximately 50%.
Finally, you should make sure that there is plenty of food available during the times when the parents are not actively feeding the chicks.
Live insects or prepared seed mixes are both good options in this situation; however, keep in mind that not every type of food will be appropriate for every bird.
Promoting Positive Parental Behaviour
It is possible to dramatically improve the chances of success by encouraging positive parental behavior during the breeding season.
One strategy to try is to provide plenty of treats both before egg laying and after hatching (in the event that chicks survive), so that both parents feel rewarded rather than resentful toward offspring.
In addition, place play gyms close to nests so that adults do not become bored while they are incubating eggs.
This not only gives them easy access back inside the nest if they need to, but it also gives them time away from the young ones once they have hatched.
Additionally, soft toys or objects that emit calming noises like those found in nature (such as wind chimes) often prove useful as well!
Recognizing Common Health Issues
Care for cockatoos should always include monitoring the frequent health problems that are connected with various breeds of cockatoos.
This should be considered standard practice for any pet ownership endeavor.
During times when chicks demand the most attention from their caregivers, be on the lookout for signs such as feather picking, a decrease in hunger or energy levels, or changes in vocalizations.
In the event that one or more of the symptoms continue, it is absolutely necessary to get in touch with an experienced avian veterinarian as soon as possible.
The most common ailments include fungal infections, which can be caused by unclean settings; inadequate nutrition as a result of improper food plans; external parasites like mites and lice; traumatic injuries sustained during conflicts between siblings; and so on.
Prevention of illness and injury through good husbandry methods can save countless hours of time subsequently spent tending to sick or damaged birds.
Careful Considerations When Selling Chicks
Last but not least, after the young animals have reached the appropriate age, it is essential to remember that there are ethical considerations involved in any sales transactions involving animals.
Make sure all customers sign contracts that detail the exact conditions under which the chicks were produced and stipulate that they will follow by any local laws that control animal welfare standards after the purchase of the chicks.
Also make an effort to build partnerships between the buyer and the seller, in which both sides pledge to giving continuous support and direction towards the upkeep of healthy lifestyles for newly acquired pets.
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