Instructions
Watch for the male to groom the female. The male will "preen" the female, picking through her feathers with his beak.
Notice if the male is feeding the female. To woo her, the male will begin feeding the female.
Watch for the male mating dance. The male parakeet will bob his head up and down in a dance in front of the female in excitement when ready to breed.
Listen for the male's mating calls. The male will began chattering incessantly when preparing to breed.
Watch for the male to tap at the female's beak. The male will often tap at the female's beak to signal he's interested in mating.
Notice if the female is raising her tail and dropping her head. Females will display this behavior to encourage the male to mount.
How to Know if It's Time to Breed Parakeets
Parakeets are hardy birds, easy to care for and popular household pets. They are fairly easy to breed given the proper environment, which includes providing a large enough cage --- at least 24 by 16 by 16 inches for a breeding pair --- living temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees, a nest box and food and water. Parakeets will be ready to breed when the male is at least 10 months old and the female 1 year old or more. The best breeding season in the U.S. is from October through March. There are signs to watch for that will indicate it's time for the parakeets to breed.