Why is my older budgie humping the new one? Is it dominance?

It might be that they don't get along, or your female is being a bit territorial/jealous, especially if this is happening when you are interacting with them. Training one at a time in a separate area may help with any bullying. if you have any nesting material or nests in the cage, removing it may help some with territorial disputes. Placing fake plants, or even clothespins on perches can also add a barrier of 'separation" in smaller enclosures to help your male get away and be picked on less easily.

There should not be a problem if the birds are slightly different ages, as long as they are getting together well and not fighting (something that can happen with same-age birds as well.) Making sure everyone has equal access to food, water, perching space, etc can help prevent fighting, as well as providing a cage that is large enough for both birds to move around, exercise, eat and sleep. The cage you currently have is awfully small, and they only appear to have one perch to sit on, which isn't best. Moving them to a large cage and adding in some more enriching toys and perches is best.

Thanks for reaching out about Bird. Not all birds get along. Maybe the male wants to breed and the female doesn't. There should be adequate perches and hiding areas, to get away, to lessen stress. Good luck.

Thanks for your question about your budgies. It isn’t typical for the pair to start fighting, but it wouldn’t be unheard of either. I didn’t see if this was their first clutch together, but sometimes that can make a difference. I would recommend ensuring that there is a great deal of space for them to get away from each other, and lots of resources available. Multiple food dishes, numerous hiding spaces, etc. Also, keeping any additional stress to a minimum would be important - things like new people coming over, loud sounds, etc. I hope this gives you a place to start, and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

It isn't common, but it can happen. If it happens again, ignore the behavior or gently distract him with a toy or piece of food. Avoid petting or scratching his back or under the wings and do not "beak wrestle" with him. These are all courting behaviors.

Sorry to hear about Pluto and Neptune, having a spat. Preening is a normal social behavior between birds, but also can reflect dominance. Sometimes birds can over groom, even removing feathers. Behavioral training might help deter abnormal grooming. Not all birds get along, and as they become sexually mature, relationships can change. Providing additional toys, perches, multiple food and water bowls and hiding areas can aid in the feeling of security for individuals. One of the problems of a cage is that animals can't escape and fly away. Providing hiding areas and "private areas" that each animal can identify as theirs, can establish zones. If the co-habitation becomes aggressive, two cages might be needed. Not all birds get along. Good luck.

They may be fighting because the cage is too small, to protect space or resources or simply because they are incompatible (as in the case of two males). If they are causes injury to each other, separate them immediately. Seek veterinary attention and treatment for any wounds.