Hi there, I'm brand new to this forum but thought it would be the best place to get some help from those in the know! I'm planning on starting an aviary with about 10-12 budgies mainly to enjoy the company of these lively little guys without having them in a cage environment. I'm not planning on breeding at all but wonder if I have to let them have a go at some point so they don't turn into hormonal little monsters? Could anyone tell me if it is wrong to not let them mate or if I should put nesting boxes in for a controlled period only? I'm not planning on breeding to produce show budgies or colour varieties. If it happened it would be for fun & only to assist with their natural need to produce. Any advice would be appreciated!

Hi and welcome to the forum!! . If you are putting your budgies into an aviary and wish to breed them (called colony breeding) you dont have control over which birds breed together. You shouldnt let them breed continuously (and they will) as the hen becomes weak and the chicks will be very small and weak also. They will be content not to breed if you decide not to place nest boxes in the aviary although on the odd occasion you might an egg or two at the bottom of the aviary!! good luck!

Thanks very much for your reply! So if I don't give them the opportunity to breed it won't upset them in any way? Or should I let them try for a short period in spring? I'm just concerned that if not given the opportunity it could harm them in any way.

welcome, you shouldn't breed if you don't want to there is no reason to have unwanted babies (breeding is a lot of work and knowledge). For them to have babies yes it is simple but good healthy babies it takes work. They should be perfectly happy together without ever breeding. One day I wish to have an aviary and have abot 10-12 but no breeding also, they are so much fun to just watch and enjoy.