How to Breed Wild Birds

Although often kept as pets, birds such as parrots, exotic songbirds, and toucans are still considered wild birds that have not been changed from their cousins found living in the wild. Breeding wild birds means understanding basic bird biology and the wild breeding habits of the species of bird that interests you. There is more to breeding wild birds than just putting two birds in a cage and hoping for babies.

Things You'll Need

  • Permits
  • Aviary
  • Avian veterinarian
  • Bird food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Contact your local state fish and game department and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to apply for any permits that may be needed for the species of bird you want to breed. You would need a permit for most U.S. native species of birds under the Migratory Bird Act. Some endangered parrots such as the Queen of Bavaria conures (Guaruba guarouba) and other pet wild birds also require various permits.

    • 2

      Set up an aviary that will make the birds feel comfortable and provide the materials needed to build a nest. Habitat design should vary by species. For example, some macaws need a large aviary and nest that replicates a hole in a tree or termite mound whereas small songbirds such as the Java sparrow need small twigs, grasses, and fibers to construct a nest.

    • 3

      Take the parent birds to an avian veterinarian for a exam prior to breeding. You want to be sure your birds are healthy enough to breed and do not have any abnormalities that may be passed on to their babies. Your avian vet will also help you determine the sex of the birds to be sure you have a male and female.

    • 4

      Provide environmental conditions that will stimulate the birds' breeding hormones. This approach will activate the birds' reproductive organs, which are inactive and shrunken during the non-breeding season. For most birds, springtime and an increase in daylight hours is all that is needed. Some species have more specific requirements based on their native habitat, such as the red-headed lovebird, which breeds during the rainy season.

    • 5

      Provide the proper nutrition needed during breeding for your particular species of bird. During breeding the dietary requirements of birds does change; often they need an increase in calcium and protein. Your avian veterinarian can help you determine your birds' needs.