It's during REM cycles that the sleeper is most vulnerable. The heart rate, brain activity, and breathing excelerates, yet the body is in a "paralyzied" state. This is advantageous for the predator, but not the sleeping bird, so the avian sleep cycles are shortened to allow the bird to be alert to dangers during sleep. NREM episodes in birds last about 2 1/2 minutes per episode, and REM episodes last only about 9 seconds. Birds can also control their brain hemispheres, resting one hemisphere and keeping one awake, or resting both at the same time. This is called engaging unihemispheric sleep. Birds also to tend to keep the "awake" hemisphere and an alert, open eye on the same side.

So, what about sleep for our domestic Quakers? In our homes, we've eliminated the predators, but the unique avian sleep cycle still remains. To get a good night's sleep, they should be put to bed in as quiet and secure place as possible, which allows them to get the 10-12 hours of undisturbed rest they need. Many Quaker owners provide their Quakers with smaller cages for night time which can be easily placed away from household activity. Additional security, warmth, comfort, and darkness can be had by covering the cage. Some owners furnish their Quakers with sleeping huts in their cages; cosy little tents they can climb into. For a Quaker, this may be reminiscent of their nests in the wild which have 3 chambers per family unit. If you provide your Quaker with a sleeping tent, be diligent if your bird tends to chew.

Lack of sleep and disturbed sleep can cause behavioral problems, like screaming, possibly some plucking behaviors, and certainly grumpiness. It's a good idea to establish an enjoyable "goodnight" routine that your bird will look forward to, encouraging him or her to get a good night's rest.