Imagine checking on your pet parakeet and look down in the cage and think “my parakeet laid an egg”! Is this normal for birds and what should you do? We will answer many of your curious questions in this post and please rest assured that your bird is healthy and safe but you may have many questions running around in your head.
My parakeet laid an egg + Is this healthy?
The quick answer is yes, and it is a normal process in the reproductive health of your bird. I guess the biggest shock for us is that our bird was named Wally and we thought he was a male. Female parakeets do not need a male companion to lay eggs and in fact it is very normal for them to have an unfertilized egg in your cage. Your parakeet is healthy and you may be surprised, but your bird is perfectly normal.
But, what if you have a male and female parakeet in the same cage? We have some tips below if your female parakeet laid an egg with a male in the same cage. The parakeet like other avian pets are capable of laying eggs almost anywhere they find comfortable. We have also detailed the best duck breeds for pets where we mention which breeds are known for laying more eggs.
Create Parakeet Nest to lay eggs
If your female parakeet or Budgie is laying eggs, you may want to consider building them a nesting box or nest. If you cage is large enough you can create a small box and hang it from a stick or attach to the side of the cage where you parakeet laid an egg. The nest should be comfortable and allow your parakeet to lay down.
Parakeet Breeding Nest Box Ideas
You can make a parakeet nest box that creates a safe and comfortable environment for breeding or egg-laying. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a nest box where your parakeet laid an egg.
Materials needed
- A wooden box or a sturdy nest box specifically designed for parakeets (available at pet stores). A cardboard box or other paper material may be shredded by your parakeet and not as sturdy.
- Non-toxic wood or plywood (if you’re making the box yourself). You can probably find some material around your home but make sure that it is natural and non-toxic.
- Tools needed – saw, jig saw, drill
- Fastening materials – Nails or screws
- Sandpaper
- Non-toxic paint or varnish (optional) – natural look is best but you can consider painting too.
- Natural nesting materials (such as untreated wood shavings, coconut fiber, pine needles or shredded paper)
Step 1: Choose the right size for nest: The nest box should be large enough to accommodate both the male and female parakeets comfortably. It should be at least 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) in width and depth, with a height of around 10-12 inches (25-30 cm).
Step 2: Prepare the box: If you’re using a wooden box, ensure that it’s made of non-toxic materials and doesn’t have any sharp edges that can injure your parakeet. You can construct a nest box using non-toxic wood or plywood too. Cut the wood pieces to the desired dimensions, and assemble them securely using nails or screws. Sand down any rough surfaces to prevent injury to the birds.
Step 3: Provide an entrance hole opening: On one side of the nest box, create a round entrance hole with a diameter of around 2 inches (5 cm). This allows the parakeets to enter and exit the nest box easily. You can use a drill bit to cut out the opening or a jig saw.
Step 4: Optional: Paint or varnish: If you’re using a homemade wooden nest box, you can choose to paint or varnish the exterior. Ensure that you use non-toxic paint or varnish that is safe for birds. If you prefer a natural look like I do, you can skip this step.
Step 5: Positioning the nest box: Place the nest box in a quiet and secluded area of the cage, away from excessive noise and disturbances. Make sure it’s securely attached to the cage or mounted in a stable position.
Step 6: Add nesting materials: Provide your parakeets with suitable nesting materials inside the nest box. You can use untreated wood shavings, coconut fiber, pine needles or shredded paper. These materials will help the female parakeet build her nest and provide cushioning for the eggs.
Step 7: Monitor and maintain: Keep an eye on the nest box regularly to ensure it remains clean and in good condition. Replace the nesting materials when they become soiled or worn out. Avoid disturbing the birds as this can cause stress and interfere with the breeding process.
You can also capture these pet memories on your camera and save it to look back on or share with friends and family.
Remember, not all parakeets will choose to use a nest box, and not all parakeet owners are interested in breeding. If you’re unsure about providing a nest box if your parakeet laid an egg or breeding your parakeets, it’s best to consult with an avian veterinarian or an experienced aviculturist for guidance based on your specific circumstances.