Detailed Explanation of Lovebird Breeding Methods and Precautions

1. Preparing the Nest

Under artificial rearing conditions, lovebirds can breed almost all year round, but in the cold winter and the hot summer, the nest box should be removed, and it is more appropriate to control the breeding season to spring and autumn. For the preparation of the cage and nest box required for breeding, see the above. When the breeding season arrives, a layer of sawdust 3-5 cm thick can be spread in the nest box, and some fine soft grass should be provided for the lovebirds to line the nest.

2. Pairing and Laying Eggs

At the beginning of the breeding season, increase the supply of egg millet and green feed to encourage the birds to come into heat, let them pair freely, and after successful pairing, mating takes place. Lovebirds generally lay 6-8 eggs per clutch, sometimes as many as 10.

3. Incubation and Brooding

The incubation period is about 19-22 days, and incubation is done entirely by the female bird. During incubation, the female bird leaves the nest only to drink water, eat, and defecate, leaving the nest 2-3 times a day, and each time she leaves the nest for only 3-5 minutes. The male bird guards outside the hole and feeds the female bird. The chicks leave the nest 35-40 days after hatching. After the chicks leave the nest, they still need to be fed by the parent birds for 2 weeks before they can live independently. At this time, the chicks should be separated from the parent birds so that the parent birds can continue breeding. Under normal circumstances, breeding 2-4 clutches a year is more appropriate. The chicks are fully grown and reach sexual maturity 6 and a half months after hatching. Ma Jing