Reproduction
The male will stand on female's back while some beak contact is made
between the mates. The male will then wrap his tail under the
female's raised tail, place his cloaca (male budgerigars have no
penis) against hers and rub it back and forth to stimulate
ejaculation. The male may move away for a moment before returning
for another session.
Breeding
Budgerigars are easily bred. In the wild, they require a hollow tree
or a hollow log, but domesticated birds use breeding boxes. A hen
will lay her eggs on alternate days; after the first one, there is
usually a two-day gap until the next. She will usually lay between
four to twelve eggs, which she will incubate for 17 to 20 days.
When the eggs start to hatch, the hatchlings are usually quite
helpless. During the second week, the hatchlings' eyes will open,
and they will start to develop feather down. After three weeks, the
hatchlings will develop feathers of their genetic colour. This may
take longer than expected, as the parents sometimes pluck the
feathers of their offspring.
By the fifth week, the hatchlings are strong enough that the parents
will be comfortable in occasionally leaving the box. The hatchlings
will stretch their wings to gain strength before they attempt to
fly. They will also help defend the box from enemies. After the
eighth week, the eldest babies should be eating and flying
independently.
Breeding difficulties
Breeding difficulties arise for various reasons. Some chicks may die
from diseases or attacks by their parents. Other budgerigars may
fight over the nest box, attacking the hen while she is laying her
eggs. Other difficulties can involve inbreeding and minor colour or
feather mutations.
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