Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Our new pair of zebra finches have produced 3 hatchlings after just a month with us. Of course we're thrilled but, being next to this finch thing, we also don't know what is normal behavior and what signals a problem. Can y'all help?

We estimate that the new arrivals are about a week old. The parents have seemed exemplary -- very protective, lots of time with the chicks. But for the past couple of days, the parents have not been sleeping in the nest, but are sleeping on top of another nest in the cage (we also have a pair of silverbills). We also don't see much evidence of tending/feeding, but then again we aren't watching too closely for fear of upsetting the family.

Is this staying outside the nest normal? It's pretty crowded in there, but this is such a change from the setting and very early hatchling stage.... HELP! Should be be concerned? If so, what should we do?

Thanks much,
Pat and Chris

I have bred zebra finches for 3 years now and mine too sleep on top of the nest once the baby is a couple weeks old.I guess this is just what they do.

Thanks much for the reassurance. You were right -- the 5 wee-zeebs (and we thought there were only 3... HA!!!) are just fine, out of the nest and having a grand time conning their folks into thinking they still need to be fed.

Next question: How do we get RID of them? Are there any good outlets for hobbyists (not serious breeders)?

Thanks,
Pat

if you haven't gotten rid of them yet you could call local pet stores and see if they're interested in the little ones, or perhaps adversite in your local news paper or something along those lines, just make sure they're fully weaned before you send them off, and try not to let the adults over breed it's not healthy, and breeding seems to be something zebras like to do..