Avian Reproduction & Breeding Flashcards

What is the approximate incubation period for a Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) egg?

Answer: 18 days

Budgerigar eggs typically hatch after approximately 18 days of incubation under normal conditions.

Which term describes the featherless, highly vascularized area of skin that develops in many birds during breeding season to transfer heat directly to eggs?

Answer: Brood patch

The brood patch is a vascularized, featherless area of abdominal skin that develops hormonally during breeding to provide direct heat transfer to eggs.

What is the typical clutch size for a Double Yellow-headed Amazon parrot (Amazona oratrix)?

Answer: 2–4 eggs

Double Yellow-headed Amazons typically lay 2–4 eggs per clutch, consistent with most Amazon parrot species.

During egg candling, what should a fertile egg display at approximately day 7 of incubation?

Answer: A visible network of blood vessels

At day 7 of incubation, a fertile egg will show a visible network of blood vessels when candled, indicating active embryonic development.

What temperature range is generally recommended for artificially incubating most parrot eggs?

Answer: 98–99°F (36.7–37.2°C)

Most parrot eggs are artificially incubated at 98–99°F (36.7–37.2°C) to simulate the natural heat maintained by the sitting parent.

Egg binding in breeding hens is most commonly associated with a deficiency of which nutrient?

Answer: Calcium

Calcium deficiency is a primary cause of egg binding because calcium is essential for proper uterine muscle contractions needed to expel the egg.

Which of the following best describes an altricial chick at the time of hatching?

Answer: Naked, eyes closed, and entirely dependent on parents

Altricial chicks hatch in a completely helpless state — naked, blind, and entirely dependent on parental care for warmth, feeding, and protection.