The duration that cockatiels sit on unfertilized eggs can vary, as it depends on the behavior of the individual birds and their environmental conditions. In general, cockatiels will continue to sit on unfertilized eggs for a period of time before eventually abandoning them.
When a pair of cockatiels is breeding, the female will typically lay a clutch of eggs, usually between 2 to 8 eggs, over a span of several days. Once the female starts incubating the eggs, both the male and female will take turns sitting on the eggs. This behavior is known as shared incubation.
During the incubation period, the cockatiels will alternate shifts of sitting on the eggs, typically lasting a few hours each. This allows them to take breaks for feeding, drinking, and other necessary activities. The duration of these shifts can vary depending on the specific pair of birds and their preferences.
However, if the eggs are unfertilized, meaning that the female did not mate with the male or the male’s sperm did not successfully fertilize the eggs, the cockatiels may eventually recognize this and abandon the eggs. This recognition can occur after a period of time, typically within a few weeks.
In my personal experience as a bird owner and breeder, I have observed that cockatiels may continue to sit on unfertilized eggs for around 3 to 4 weeks before giving up. During this time, they may behave as if the eggs are viable, diligently taking turns to incubate them and showing protective behaviors.
It is important to note that if you suspect that the eggs are unfertilized, it is best to allow the pair of birds to continue incubating them for a reasonable period of time to ensure that they are indeed infertile. Sometimes, it may take a bit longer for the eggs to hatch, and premature intervention can disrupt the natural incubation process.
Cockatiels will typically sit on unfertilized eggs for a period of around 3 to 4 weeks before abandoning them. The duration may vary depending on the behavior of the individual birds and their specific circumstances. It is important to allow the birds to continue incubating the eggs for a reasonable period of time before determining their fertility.