Reproductive Activity of Force-Paired Cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus)

Abstract

In some monogamous birds random force-pairing of mates results in successful reproduction. In addition, prior social experience with a mate may enhance subsequent reproductive success. We investigated the influence of force-pairing and prior pair association on reproductive activity in Cockatiels stimulated to breed by long daylengths and nest-box access. Birds force-paired at the onset of long days had reduced reproductive activity compared to birds force-paired prior to long days. Both groups of force-paired birds displayed less activity than established control pairs. Birds force-paired prior to long days but then reunited with former mates at the onset of long days did not show impaired reproductive activity compared with controls. We show that force-pairing can lead to some breeding activity in this species and that mate familiarity improves the reproductive activity resulting from force-pairing. Furthermore, pairs with histories of breeding do not require continuous mate access to maintain pair bonds.