Black-headed caique: incubation period, weaning age and breeding
Black-headed caique eggs hatch after 25–27 days of incubation. Chicks fledge at 70–77 days and are weaned and independent at about 84–100 days. A typical clutch is 2–4 eggs.
Breeding numbers
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Adult weight (g) | 140-170 |
| Length (cm) | 23-25 |
| Clutch size | 2-4 |
| Incubation (days) | 25-27 |
| Fledging (days) | 70-77 |
| Weaning / independence (days) | 84-100 |
| Breeding age (maturity) | 24–36 months |
| Lifespan (years) | 25-40 |
| Breeding season | Spring |
| Sexing | DNA. |
Origin: Northern Amazon — Scientific name: Pionites melanocephalus
Size: 23-25 cm, 140-170 g
Breeding and care tips
Very active and playful; may injure other birds' feet - house separately.
Mutations and colours
No colour mutation of this species is confirmed in the sources.
Zajel's genetics lab predicts chick colours from both parents for established mutations only; disputed ones are shown with a note and left out of the calculation.
Need the exact date? Use the egg hatch calculator and the weaning age chart.
Related species
- Peach-faced lovebird
- Fischer's & masked lovebird
- Black-cheeked lovebird
- Nyasa Lilian's lovebird
- Cockatiel
- Indian ringneck
- Alexandrine parakeet
- Plum-headed parakeet
Frequently asked questions
How long do Black-headed caique eggs take to hatch?
Black-headed caique eggs hatch after 25-27 days of incubation.
How many eggs does a Black-headed caique lay?
Usually 2-4 eggs per clutch.
When do Black-headed caique chicks leave the nest?
Chicks fledge at about 70-77 days old.
When are Black-headed caique chicks weaned?
They are weaned and independent at about 84-100 days.
At what age can a Black-headed caique breed?
A Black-headed caique reaches breeding age at about 24–36 months; pairing earlier is not advised.
What is the Black-headed caique breeding season?
Spring
How do you tell a male Black-headed caique from a female?
DNA.
How long does a Black-headed caique live?
About 25-40 years with good care.