What does the following behaviour indicate?

 

I have a pair of budgies in a breeding cage. They have been together for 5 months. First attempt at breeding for both. They are 18 months old. They have bonded and are both showing interest in the nest box. I witnessed the female mounting the male. The male took up the position for mating as if a female. Has anyone witnessed this type of behaviour before? What does it mean? Is it a fault with the male or female, or both.

 

I have since seperated and changed the male with another that I have successfully bred before.

 

Thanks in advance

Nick

I've never heard of it but It's probably just a first time thing, maybe put him with an experienced hen as well so he can get the hang of it...

Thanks Jimmy. I will try an experienced hen with him when one is available. Most of my birds are young, I will need to wait to end of year. I was hoping to breed him as he is a good size normal dark green cock, 25% Gazzard, purchased in October last year at auction.

She may have been showing her dominance to him, however i am not sure that this happens with birds.

Thanks Budgie Mad

 

I have put an experienced male in with her. She attacks him as well. She is a good sized hen, head, shoulders and length. I might have to give up breeding with her and give her away as a pet to someone before she traumatises all my cock birds!

What is her cere like? Perhaps she will behave herself better if you keep her separate from any males until she goes into proper breeding condition, and then she might be more likely to be in an accepting mood.