Nesting and Breeding

NESTING and BREEDING The QUAKER PARROT matures at 1-2 yrs., usually, closer to 2, although, some have shown signs of sexual maturity at 7-8 months. Breeding season seems to vary by region. Due to the popularity of the Quaker, originating in South America, they are now found in Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe, and the US. Given this global expanse, breeding season seems to vary by climate, and location. Generally, Mid-Fall to Early-Spring. Breeding season lasts about 6-10 weeks. Incubation  time is 23-28 days. Egg Laying After breeding, if the eggs are fertilized, the hen will lay her first egg in about 25 hours. Another egg will follow every other day. The average “clutch” is 4-8 eggs, with a second clutch following , in about 4 weeks. It's important to know that some hens never lay eggs. On the other hand, some hens, with out a mate, can lay eggs. If you have a single female laying, do not remove the egg(s), unless broken. This will only encourage more laying. Allow her to sit the eggs. Usually, after a week or two, she'll realize the eggs are not developing and abandon them. At this point, you can safely remove the eggs. Don't forget the second clutch in about 4 weeks. To avoid this, cut day light time to 10-12 hours, (the mating hormone in is triggered by light) this will help curb the urge to lay. Limiting the light can be done by moving the cage to a darker room, pulling drapes early, turning lights on and off later/earlier. It depends on your fids location and circumstances. Egg laying can deplete her of Calcium. This needs to be supplemented with Calcium Rich Foods. Some foods rich in Calcium are broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, apple, mango, cucumber, tomatoes, rice, hard beans (cooked), pasta, eggs (and shells), dark orange veggies; carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, and many grains. Vitamin and Mineral supplements can also be purchased in the form of liquid, or powder. It's not uncommon for the parents to destroy the eggs, and sometimes eat them. In many cases, where the hen eats the egg(s), it's due to a Calcium deficiency. Then comes the growth cycle. The babies are fledged ( weaned by natural parents) in six to eight weeks. Hand fed are weaned in eight to twelve weeks. Individuals vary. Quaker Parrots don't actually get pregnant, so there's not a gestation period. After successful breeding, it takes around 25 hours for the first egg to be developed, and laid. QUAKERS are “the only” PARROT that "build" nests Most PARROTS “nest” in hollowed trees. Some find their nests in rock formations, while others, under brush. Some even burro into the ground. Unique to the  “QUAKER PARROT”, is their communal living arrangements. Many Parrots nest near each other. There is safety in numbers. Many "birds" build nests for breeding purposes, then abandon after season. The QUAKER’s nest is "home". More interesting is the fact that QUAKERS attach their nests to existing  nests. Many refer to these living arrangements  as “condos”. These condos may occupy dozens of mated pairs. Some condos have been estimated to weigh several hundred pounds. Each individual unit, in the condo, has it’s own entrance. These units are generally divided into three chambers. The most obvious, being the living space. Second, would be the entrance. Some call it the front porch. I like to call it the “helipad”. The place for take off, and landing. The third, would be the bedroom. The magical place for incubating, and caring for the young. Your new parents will require a nest for the eggs/young. Nesting Boxes are designed several different ways. They can be mounted inside the cage. Some larger cages have an extra door, this is for mounting the nesting box out side the cage. Nesting materials will also be required. A favorite among breeders is Pine Shavings. You may be able to find these at your local Pet Shop, or maybe Craft Shop. Place the materials at the bottom of the cage. Mom and Dad will know what to do. You may want to provide Building Materials during Non-Breeding Season. Your Quaker may enjoy toothpics, popcicle sticks, straws, yarn, string, rope (keep these to minimal length 4-6 inches to avoid the fid being tangled). Also sticks, branches, grasses, children's toys similar to tinker. IMPORTANT: before supplying Building Materials, think about what they consist of. Many things have dyes and other chemicals that may harm your fid. Plants out side (and in) may harm your fid. Take a look at Safe Trees, and Branches, also Toxic Chemicals. If you choose to provide branches from outside, be sure to wash thoroughly with a mild bleach/water solution, rinse well, and dry before offering them to your fid. QUAKERS are highly energetic. The QUAKER is constantly on the search for food, and building materials. The “condo”, seems to  always be in need of repair, and maintainence. The pics you’re seeing here, are several condos in “ONE” tree. Miami Shores, just off Biscayne Bay. I hope you enjoy!!!! If your interested in a private condo for your QUAKER, click here. jaytee HOME

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