Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 4/18/2008

Question
I have a male and female parakeets. The female is acting as if she is preparing the nest to lay eggs, she is constantly in and out of the box. Her behavior has changed drastically she does not want the male or I anywhere near her. She is constantly biting him and I and she has never done this. I have looked in the box and there are no eggs. What should I do if anything with this behavior? I would not mind having her lay eggs. what can i do to promote this? When I was given these birds I was told they are about two years old. I would appreciate any information on this situation.
Thank you

Answer
Hi, Rita,

Your female is behaving normally for a hen about ready to lay eggs.  Most birds act aggressively toward their mate if she doesn't want him in the nesting box.  Male keets are supposed to guard the cage and outside of the nesting box, as well as feed the female, who spends her time inside the box with the eggs and/or babies.  The hen cares for the eggs/babies, not the male.  It is also normal for the hen at least if not both birds to be aggressive toward you when they are nesting...they don't want you interferring with their nest, babies, etc.  However, don't let this stop you from servicing the cage, cleaning out the nesting box when necessary after babies arrive, etc.  

You shouldn't do anything except let Mother Nature take its course.  If you do not know anything about breeding, don't promote them having babies.  Too many things can go wrong and you need to be prepared to step in when this happens (such as having to pull babies for handfeeding/hand rearing, illness, feeding, etc.).  Therefore, learn all you can BEFORE you allow your birds to breed and produce offspring.

Chrys