How to Tell If Your Cockatiel Is Going to Lay Eggs

Cockatiels are personable little members of the parrot family. These attractive parakeets, which originate from arid areas in Australia, are highly sought after companion birds. Many cockatiel enthusiasts choose to breed their birds at some point and cockatiels, fortunately, mate and rear clutches of young without much trouble. Female cockatiels that are close to laying, show distinct behaviors and by understanding these, owners can determine when to expect the first egg.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Wooden perches
  • Paper floor lining
  • Water bowel and water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine if your cockatiel female was exposed to certain factors that induce breeding. These conditions include the exposure to long hours of artificial indoor lighting, a warm indoor environment and access to a variety of soft foods, which the hen will consider important for feeding a chick.

    • 2

      Recall if your hen has been spending prolonged periods in her nest box or in a dark corner of the cage. Such behavior is typical of females who are preparing to lay.

    • 3

      Observe your female cockatiel closely. The lower abdomen of hens that are preparing to lay, appears noticeably larger than the abdomen of nonbreeding females. This is particularly true around the vent area.

    • 4

      Pick the cockatiel up if she is accustomed to be handled by you. She will feel heavier than usual.

    • 5

      Observe the drinking habits of your female. Cockatiel hens that have eggs developing within their bodies drink far more water than they previously did. The developing egg requires a lot more fluid than nonbreeding cockatiels drink.

    • 6

      Watch for signs that your female is preparing a nest. A hen that has eggs developing within her body will begin chewing and shredding a variety of materials, including her wooden perch and paper that is lining the cage floor.

    • 7

      Notice if your female is becoming protective of her nest box or cage. These hen will reverse into a corner of the cage and continue to keep her owner in sight. The female will typically vocalize by making soft chirping noises.

    • 8

      Observe the hen's droppings. Cockatiel females that are about to lay produce odorous droppings, which are much larger than usual. These droppings are also very loose. Just prior to egg laying, the female retains the droppings in her cloaca and eliminates less frequently, normally in the early morning.