Lorikeet and Cockateil

[cockatiel]

Hi there

I have a Cockatiel and a Rainbow Lorikeet which have been in the same cage together for more than 5 years now and have both been really friendly to one another. I originally thought they were both boys until my lorikeet layed eggs in the hollow log that I have in their cage for them.
I a bit worried because they are now both taking turns at sitting on the eggs and my Cockatiel is protecting the Lorikeet and the eggs.

This is going to sound stupid but would they crossbreed ?? Also should I take the eggs out or should I leave them in there ?

Thanks in Advance :)

[Monica]

How long have the eggs been in there? And how many eggs?

I would assume that you live in Australia? In the least bit, I've heard that lories are very aggressive birds (at leas toward other species), and I would worry about the different nutritional requirements by each bird. Curious as to know what their diets are?

The best thing to do right now would probably be to leave the eggs be for at least a month, then remove them, and the nest. You might have to go as far as separating the birds too, especially if your tiel tries to feed your lory.

As for whether or not it's possible for them to hybridize? Undoubtedly. It is only known that cockatiels and cockatoos can hybridize, and that there are no reports of cockatiels hybridizing with any other species.

[cockatiel]

Hi there Thanks heaps for you reply.

Their are 3 eggs & they have been there for about a week now, & there both still eating well.

I live in Australia. We got the Lorikeet in the begining because he had a broken wing that never healed properly (He can't fly at all ) They have always got along really well which is great. They get fed two different diets. The Lorikeet gets a special nector mix specilised for the lorikeets (wet & dry) plus fresh fruit, veg & daily (for both the birds) The Cockatiel gets His cockatiel seed mix & his favourite things thistles and Bottle brush to chew on

I will remove the eggs in a couple of weeks then

[Tiki]

I don't think a Tiel and a Lorikeet can breed, they are too different. The eggs won't be fertile.

What part of Australia? I'm from Brisbane. Welcome to Birdboard!