How to Breed Alexandrine Parakeets

Alexandrine parakeets are a type of ringneck parrot. Like other types of ringnecks, male Alexandrine parakeets have a pink and black ring running around their neck, like a collar. Although they are called parakeets, these birds can become quite large, growing to nearly 2-feet long. Alexandrine parakeets are very energetic, which can sometimes lead to destructive behavior. They also have a loud call. However, because these parakeets belong to flocks in the wild, they can become very friendly with their owners. Breeding Alexandrine parakeets takes some work, but is not particularly difficult.

Things You'll Need

  • Nest boxes
  • Wood shavings
  • Fatty seeds
  • Vitamin and mineral supplements
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Instructions

    • 1

      Begin breeding the Alexandrine parakeets between November and early spring. In the wild, Alexandrine parakeets breed and nest between November and April. Allowing the captive birds to breed during these months mimics their natural habits, and increases the chances for a successful breeding.

    • 2

      Place a male and female bird in a large aviary together. Both males and females of this species are usually ready to breed at about 3 years old. Male Alexandrine parakeets always display the pink and black ring around their necks. Females will never display these ring colors, although they may have a gray ring. Females are also a lighter overall color than the males and have shorter tail feathers.

    • 3

      Place at least two nest boxes in the breeding aviary. These boxes, which should be large enough for both of the Alexandrine parakeets to fit in, are where the birds will lay their eggs. They should be placed at high areas in the aviary, and filled with an inch or two of soft wood shavings, which the parakeets will use as nesting material.

    • 4

      Feed the birds more fatty seeds, increasing this food by about 20 percent. These seeds will supply the nutrients the birds need in order to remain healthy while breeding. Other food items, such as hard boiled eggs, can also be given to boost nutrient levels.

    • 5

      Give the Alexandrine parakeets a vitamin and mineral supplement, either in the form of a powder, which can be sprinkled on the food, or a block. These supplements will provide essential nutrients, such as calcium, that the birds need in order to produce healthy eggs.

    • 6

      Allow the birds to get to know each other. Alexandrine parakeets do not mate for life, so the pair will need to take some time to become comfortable with each other before breeding. When they're ready, usually in early spring, the pair will produce two to six eggs. The eggs will hatch within about 28 days.