Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 1/1/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hi, i have a cockatiel which layed two eggs with correct time diffrence.Then after 6days of difference it layed another set of two eggs? Is this normal laying egg in 6days difference between the 2nd and 3rd egg? This is the first time she is breeding. so Pls assist me...

ANSWER: Hi, Vimala,

No, it is not normal laying.  Normally, cockatiels lay an egg every other day until a full clutch of about 6 eggs are laid.  It could be because this is her first clutch.  Also could mean she is too young to be breeding and/or that something is amiss in her breeding environment.  Female tiels needs to be at least 18-24 months old before breeding.  Some breed younger, but this should be avoided if possible.  Does she have a mate or is she laying infertile eggs?  Did you put any substrate in the bottom of the nesting box?  Is this bird housed with other birds?  I need more details about what is going on if you want me to assist further.

Chrys

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Yes, she is young about 12months old and of course she has a mate. We provided her a nesting box and both the male and female are together. So how can i check if the eggs are fertile?

Answer
Hi again, Vimala,

Happy New Year!

She's too young to be breeding at 12 months old.  Female birds can lay infertile eggs without having mated with a male bird.  

You can candle the eggs after they have been incubated for 7-10 days.  To candle, you shine a light source through the egg to see what you can see inside.  If the inside looks like a chicken egg from your refrigerator, it is infertile.  If you can see red veins and a dark spot inside, then the egg may be fertile.  Do not touch the eggs with your bare skin.  Wear gloves or use a tissue or towel when handling eggs.

Chrys