How to Mate and Breed Parrots

Parrots of all types add color and cheerful noise to our lives. From parakeets to macaws, a bird lover can find a bird that's just right for her. Some aviculturists find that they love keeping parrots so much that they want to mate and breed them. Whether to breed parrots should be carefully considered -- you should be able to provide the necessary food and equipment and, eventually, a home for the chicks. Do some research on what's involved before you make a decision to mate and breed your parrots.

Things You'll Need

  • Breeding vitamins
  • Adequate cage for your breed
  • Nesting box and materials
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start when your parrots are at least 18 months old. Parrots shouldn't be bred at less than a year old, and waiting until 18 months of age is best for your birds' health.

    • 2

      Pick your season. Parrots typically mate in the spring and fall. For optimum health, you should only let your parrots breed once a year. Time their breeding for the season when you have time to devote to your birds' care.

    • 3

      Take your birds to an avian veterinarian. Your birds need a checkup to ensure that they don't have parasites or disease; either could potentially affect both your parrots' breeding abilities and their chicks' health.

    • 4

      Give your parrots breeding vitamins. Your avian vet may prescribe these or you can purchase them at a local pet store that carries bird products. Make sure that you have a cuttle stone or a mineral stone in your parrots' cage -- the female parrot will need the extra calcium to produce healthy eggs.

    • 5

      Provide the proper light to encourage your parrots to mate. Parrots require at least 12 hours of light to stimulate the mating hormones. Use an avian lamp if necessary to give your parrots adequate time in the light.

    • 6

      Provide the correct nesting box for your particular species of parrot. Each species has its own preferences for nesting. Your avian vet or local pet store can give you advice for your particular birds. You may need to purchase a larger cage to accommodate the box; or you may choose a model that attaches to the outside of the cage if your birds are allowed the run of your house. Once your parrots have the right environment, it's up to nature whether or not you can expect chicks in a few weeks.