I really want to breed budgies, although I am aware it is a huge responsibility. I have a few questions, and I would really appriciate some answers and tips. Thanks in advance.

 

-At the moment I only have 2 males, and a 15"(L) x 16"(W) x 26"(H) cage. (aprox.) Is that big enough to keep 4 budgies in for while?

 

-Can 2 pairs breed in the same cage of that size?

 

-What do I do if the parents refuse to feed the babies? Do I have to hand feed/raise it?

 

-If I am not home every hour of the day, is it okay? How much attention and time do I need to spend on this? What kind of work do I have to do?

 

-How many babies can I expect from each clutch?

 

-Is it okay to keep the babies together? (If I decide to keep them?)

 

-Is it possible that the babies may breed with their siblings later on?

 

 

Any other helpful information, tips, or sites would be great. I'm not even sure im going to ever breed them, but before I consider it, I would really like to know what I need to keep in mind.

-At the moment I only have 2 males, and a 15"(L) x 16"(W) x 26"(H) cage. (aprox.) Is that big enough to keep 4 budgies in for while?

 

That is actually smaller than what is recommended for even a single budgie. (18"x18"x18") I wouldn't keep any more than two budgies in a cage that size and even then, they could probably use an upgrade.

 

-Can 2 pairs breed in the same cage of that size?

It's best to give each breeding pair its own cage and you should probably invest in larger breeding cages for each pair. Several ebay sellers have them for very cheap prices. I definitely wouldn't breed in the cage you have now. Remember that height is not important. Width is.

 

-What do I do if the parents refuse to feed the babies? Do I have to hand feed/raise it?

If the parents won't feed it and you won't feed then it will die. So yes, you would have to learn to hand feed the babies and you should see it done by a pro before attempting yourself. You can kill a chick by doing it incorrectly. Have your avian vet or a good breeder show you how before you decide to breed. Have handfeeding supplies on hand before the first chick even hatches.

 

-If I am not home every hour of the day, is it okay? How much attention and time do I need to spend on this? What kind of work do I have to do?

I haven't bred so this is just speculation but if things go smoothly, I doubt you'd have that much more work to do other than keeping an eye on things and keeping the cage and chicks clean. It may also be a good idea to handle the chicks once they're a few weeks old so that they will be tamer. I don't see why you'd have to be around 24/7 but things could go wrong. If you end up having to hand feed a baby, be prepared to get up as often as every 2 hours around the clock.

 

-How many babies can I expect from each clutch?

From what I have read, five or less is what is most common.

 

-Is it okay to keep the babies together? (If I decide to keep them?)

I don't see why not. As long as you don't give them a nest box and as long as they get along okay. You should be prepared in case they start fighting, have spare cages ready.

 

-Is it possible that the babies may breed with their siblings later on?

Only if you let them. They might mate with their siblings but don't provide a nest box. If eggs are laid elsewhere you will have to freeze them to keep them from developing. If you are uncomfortable doing this, separate the chicks or find them homes.

 

Hope that helps. And I'm sure a breeder will come around and elaborate on the questions I have no experience with.

 

A few more things to consider are: Breeding is expensive. Do you have an avian vet? Are you able to afford vet care for all the birds, especially if a problem arises?

 

Last, but not least, WHY do you want to breed? Is it in the best interest of the birds?

I was going to respond, but I can't possibly better Eterri's response. Totally agree with all her answers! If you need more help, ask away!