Male Cacatuoides guarding eggs

[Luigi Vampa]

Hi guys, first post here but been reading for a little while.

Last week I got myself a trio of A. Cacatuoides Orange, and already I've got eggs on the surface of one of the caves. At first the female that has spawned was being left out in favour of the other, I guess he changed his mind.

Anyway, when I first noticed them both male and female where in the cave next to each other, but he kicked her out and won't let her back in. He flares as she approaches and chases her off if she gets too near. He then darts back to the cave and keeps watch. So this is a role reversal according to most of the stuff I have read online?

I was told they were young when I bought them, could this be a case of the male not knowing the ropes just yet? I'm not specifically trying to breed at the moment, so it's not a desperate situation for me, but is it normal? I'm worried he will stress the female who is just trying to get to her eggs. Thanks.

 

[DBlauj]

It does happen from time to time but usually the females will guard the eggs and raise the fry. It may be because they are still young but for the most part if all ends well I wouldn't worry too much. If you are worried just remove the male and place him in another tank to allow the female to raise the eggs and fry. I have had pairs where the first few batches would be eaten and others that were great parents from the start. It's a learning process for them and a matter of what you are comfortable with. GL.

 

[Mike Wise]

Your tank is an artificial environment. As such, many oddly atypical, behaviors can appear.