IS THERE A BREEDING SEASON?

 

by Terry A Tuxford

 

On a re-occurring basis over many years, the question of the ring issue date in relationship to when our birds are most inclined to wish to reproduce is discussed, and often most passionately by an assortment of respected breeders. Most of these fanciers relate their own experiences, and something that most of us are guilty of, their opinions. The only problem with relating an opinion it that it is just that, an opinion, and usually not founded on any scientific proof.

 

As time goes by, and education becomes more advanced and sophisticated, I am sure that future generations of Budgerigar Fancier will be less inclined to accept opinion and will want hard evidence to base their practices upon. The reason for this is that, believe it or not, opinions given on subjects such as live stock management by 'laymen' are very often wrong.

 

Scientific Evidence

 

The reason for these opening statements is not intended in any way to decry the successful breeder and exhibitor of Budgerigars whose success is based largely upon a natural ability with livestock because, I believe that with this type of person, they would be successful with whatever animal, bird or fish they chose to breed. Nor is it to suppress opinion because I also accept that great teachings often stem from opinion that is later formulated into fact. My main purpose is to encourage all of you to record your results in such a manner that perhaps one day they can be used for the betterment of the hobby.

 

An example of this, and in connection with the breeding season, was brought to me some time ago by John Evans who lives in Netley Abbey. John breeds his budgerigars all the year round and only uses 6 cages, which gives good control for recording information. Pairs are selected on the basis that when they are in breeding condition they are placed in breeding cages as and when a cage becomes available, irrespective of the time of year. Over a period of 9 years he recorded his results on a month by month basis, logging chicks hatched in each period and his results showed that there was very little difference between one month and the next.

 

The only anomalies experienced were in December through to March and can be explained by the fact that he attempts, like many of us, to get more chicks early in the year with the new years rings upon them. As for a low in August, this is when John goes on his holiday.

 

Taking his information there appears to be no significant difference between the number of eggs hatched in any month and from this John concluded that his birds do not have a breeding season.

 

So now we have it, documented proof that Budgerigars are not seasonal breeders, unless of course you have something that tells us different!

 

By Terry Tuxford

Thats very interesting and I know from my previous breeding that the little sods will breed anytime.

 

In saying that though, all that I have read about the wild budgerigar is that they do definitely have a breeding season.

 

Interesting stuff all the same.