Breeding bullfinches is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Many enthusiasts face setbacks, but with the right knowledge and care, you can successfully breed and maintain healthy bullfinches. While I don’t claim to be an expert, I’ve had my share of successes and would like to share my experiences, including tips on diet, housing, behavior, and health care for bullfinches.
Understanding the Gapes in Bullfinches
One common issue with bullfinches is “the gapes,” a condition often linked to a diet too rich and fattening, especially for birds kept in small cages. Bullfinches are an investment, and losing birds to this condition can be disheartening. I learned this the hard way, losing several bullfinches early on.
A diet high in hemp, sunflower, and safflower seeds can contribute to the gapes. Birds in large aviaries may burn off excess fat, but those in smaller cages are more susceptible. Switching to a canary seed mix and administering Intradine in their drinking water for the first five days of each month significantly improved my birds’ health, with many living up to five years.
Managing a Rich Diet
Initially, I fed my bullfinches a popular mix but noticed increased gasping when I moved to a smaller space. Switching to a canary seed mix from a Belgian company made a noticeable difference. Additionally, introducing small slices of red apple three times a week, a pinch of blue maw seed weekly, and plenty of wild food has kept my bullfinches healthy.
If you notice the gapes, try Tylan at one level teaspoon per pint of water for ten days. Dissolve the Tylan in warm water before mixing with cold water. This remedy has proven effective for my birds, even curing long-standing cases.
Preparing for Breeding Season
As breeding season approaches, feed your bullfinches plenty of dandelion heads, leaves, and roots. These should be available ad-lib to condition your birds. Early signs of breeding behavior, such as carrying nesting material and singing, may appear as early as February or March, but it’s crucial not to start breeding too early. May to August are the most productive months for breeding bullfinches.
Housing and Nesting
I house my birds in small indoor flights measuring 3ft x 2ft x 2ft (90cm x 60cm x 60cm). Minimal cover, such as a small sprig of conifer or an artificial Christmas tree branch, obscures the nest. This setup works well for various species, including twites, redpolls, bullfinches, and greenfinches.
Breeding Diet
During the breeding season, a diet of their usual seed mixture plus as much chickweed as they can eat is essential. Other wild plants like sow thistle and groundsel, along with a mixture of CEDE and Quiko Fauna egg food, provide necessary nutrients. Adding mini mealworms and soaked seed daily enhances their diet.
Handling Bullfinch Breeding Behavior
Bullfinches are generally good parents, but some males can be troublesome, throwing chicks from the nest. If this happens, move the male to another cage after the hen lays her eggs. When hens are incubating, they become broody and trusting, so checking on eggs or chicks is usually safe.
A useful tip is to provide fresh egg food or chickweed before inspecting the nest to keep the female occupied.
Ringing and Weaning
I ring young bullfinches at around 9-10 days old, as ringing earlier can lead to parents mistaking the ring for foreign objects. Once the chicks are feeding themselves, I wean them to avoid prolonged begging. Their diet includes soaked seed, egg food, and wild food until they complete their first molt.
Ensuring Good Hygiene
Maintaining hygiene is crucial for the well-being of young bullfinches. I use Intradine from five weeks old until they finish molting, at a rate of 5ml per liter of water, five days on and two days off.
Conclusion
Breeding bullfinches can be a delightful experience with the right care and respect. Once you gain experience, you might even explore hybridizing, remembering that only the hen has proved fertile in this field. Enjoy the journey and the rewards that come with successfully breeding and caring for these beautiful birds.