I only use 14 breeding cages and every one is fully prepared, even the nest-box is fitted ready to introduce the pairs. Food and water is allocated, so as not to disturb the pair for at least a couple of days after they are introduced. The cocks in my breeding team have been selected as a matter of course, in the months prior to getting ready for pairing. Cocks are selected on feather quality, as well as width of head and depth of mask. Spot size is not so important as long as spots are in the pedigree.
Hen require width of head and broad shoulders.
Depth of mask is not so important as long as it has a good width. I can't stand hens with narrow masks. I like hens with medium feathering and plenty of back skull. Underdown is just as important as the feather above it. Fanciers who concentrate on only the feathering of their budgerigars finish up with long-faced, narrow birds.