Kakariki: incubation period, weaning age and breeding
Kakariki eggs hatch after 19–20 days of incubation. Chicks fledge at 35–42 days and are weaned and independent at about 49–56 days. A typical clutch is 5–9 eggs.
Breeding numbers
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Adult weight (g) | 50-80 |
| Length (cm) | 26-28 |
| Clutch size | 5-9 |
| Incubation (days) | 19-20 |
| Fledging (days) | 35-42 |
| Weaning / independence (days) | 49-56 |
| Breeding age (maturity) | 6–12 months |
| Lifespan (years) | 10-15 |
| Breeding season | Spring-autumn; very prolific, limit rounds |
| Sexing | Cock larger with broader head and bill; DNA reliable. |
Origin: New Zealand — Scientific name: Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae
Size: 27 cm, 50-80 g
Breeding and care tips
Very active ground-scratcher; keep the floor clean. Hens lay large clutches - limit rounds.
Mutations and colours
Mutations Zajel calculates: Cinnamon, Dominant pied, Recessive pied. Named only (not confirmed or polygenic — not used in the calculation): Lutino (SL), Fallow, Dark-eyed yellow, Turquoise, Edged (spangle), Misty, Mottle, Opaline.
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 Kakariki eggs take to hatch?
Kakariki eggs hatch after 19-20 days of incubation.
How many eggs does a Kakariki lay?
Usually 5-9 eggs per clutch.
When do Kakariki chicks leave the nest?
Chicks fledge at about 35-42 days old.
When are Kakariki chicks weaned?
They are weaned and independent at about 49-56 days.
At what age can a Kakariki breed?
A Kakariki reaches breeding age at about 6–12 months; pairing earlier is not advised.
What is the Kakariki breeding season?
Spring-autumn; very prolific, limit rounds
How do you tell a male Kakariki from a female?
Cock larger with broader head and bill; DNA reliable.
How long does a Kakariki live?
About 10-15 years with good care.