Together the pair will search for a tree for their nesting spot. If the pair agrees on a spot, they will together start to excavate. A pair might separate if they can not agree on a nesting spot or if no tree is found. The tree selected for the nest site is usually dead wood. Four to five eggs are laid over a period of four to six days.
Incubation is believed to be started towards the end of the egg laying period.
During the incubation period there is always one bird at the nest. Each bird takes turns incubating the eggs for a period of thirty to sixty minutes. In the night time, the male stays on the nest. Incubation last approximately twelve days. Both parents will bring the newly hatched birds food and take away their fecal sacs.