Cockatiels exhibit several telltale signs before laying eggs, including a protruding vent, lethargy, reduced activity, and increased irritability. It's crucial to prepare a comfortable nest and minimize disturbances during this period.
When a cockatiel is about to lay eggs, you'll notice a noticeably swollen vent. They may also appear listless, and subtle changes might occur around their beak and nostrils. These are normal pre-laying indicators. These signs often indicate egg production is imminent and you will soon need to prepare for the arrival of baby cockatiels.
If the female cockatiel spends an increased amount of time in the nest, and the male cockatiel is frequently out foraging for food, it’s another indicator that laying is close. It’s advised to avoid getting too close to the nest, as the male may become aggressive and may attack if he feels that his mate is threatened. It's very important to provide a calm environment.
During this time, cockatiels might exhibit increased aggression, such as nipping or biting, this is mainly due to hormonal changes. Ensure you provide a quiet and comfortable environment. After the cockatiel has laid the eggs, they will need to be provided with a high-nutrient diet. This will support them during this time, and you will be able to better take care of your bird during egg laying.
Important Considerations When Your Cockatiel Is Laying Eggs
(1) Provide a spacious and comfortable nesting box. During the summer, ensure the box is well-ventilated and doesn’t overheat. Regular cleaning is essential. Always make sure your cockatiel has access to plenty of clean water and food.
(2) Minimize disturbances as much as possible. However, regularly check on the eggs to ensure they are safe and not accidentally damaged by the parent birds. The chicks usually hatch after about 20 days. It is also important to make sure they don't fall out of the nest.
(3) After your female cockatiel has finished the hatching task, and you would still like to continue breeding, you may want to consider finding another male cockatiel. This will allow for additional breeding opportunities in the future.