Hello, I haven't posted for some time, but here I am back again. I love birds and have quite a few. I have 4 cockatiels, 9 ringneck doves and now have 5 parakeets. My pair had 4, but only 3 survived. I saw in some of your information that the babies are weaned at about 5 weeks. I wanted to verify that. They are very cute and alert and are trying to get out of the nesting box. Are they supposed to come out or not? Also, I want to know if at some time I should hand feed them to train them. When would be a good time to do that? And, one more question: One baby has a problem with his leg. I do not know if it is a birth defect or if the mother stepped on it. It is not broken but it is straight out. It is still able to stand pretty well though. Does anyone know if this is common? Believe it or not my first ringneck dove was born and it broke both of its legs!! I felt so bad and took it to the vet. A little costly, but how could you just let it be like that. It is all better now and with the rest of the flock!! Anyone, please advise about the parakeets. Thank you so much. Also, I forgot to mention about my female parakeet. Upon laying the eggs and now having the babies, she has gotten really spotted on the top of her head. She has black specks all over her that makes her look a little dirty. Is this due to stress. If anyone knows I appreciate your feedback. It is nice to be able to post. Thank you so much!