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Why does my budgie try to mate with my hand and ignore its nest?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered

I have two budgies. Jeremy and Pearl. Jeremy is a male while the other one is female(at least this is what I guess), I have Jeremy for 2 years now. I got Pearl 1 year ago. Jeremy and I get very well. Nut there is a problem now. Jeremy kisses and feeds Pearl. He scratches her and all. They have an artificial nest attached to their cage, but none of them seems to go near it. Besides, when Jeremy is out, HE TRIES TO MATE WITH MY HAND AND HE DOES THAT. I really need help.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Desrosiers

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on May 2nd, 2017

Parakeets don't usually try to mate with things other than other parakeets, however if he is doing this behavior with you it is best to just put him back in the cage and let him go about his business until he has calmed down. You can still interact with him by offering treats or having him sit on a perch instead of your hand if the behavior continues.

If they're both males (which is always possible) it may be they aren't interested in the nest. You can try adding some items to it to make it more interesting, or offer some nest building material (most pet stores will carry this) to see if it encourages nest building. Be sure not to place yarn or other strings as feet and beaks may get caught on that and cause injury.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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