Breeding goldfinches involves a lot of dedication and careful preparation. Once the goldfinches have been provided with the correct cage size, proper diet, and introduced to nests and nesting materials, the next step is to ensure the successful laying and care of their eggs. Here’s how to manage this crucial phase in goldfinch breeding.
The Egg-Laying Process
A female goldfinch will typically lay 4 to 5, and occasionally 6, bluish-white eggs with brown spots. She lays one egg per day and begins incubating them only after the last egg is laid. In the wild, the male goldfinch will feed the hen and sing nearby. In captivity, this behavior remains largely the same.
Nesting and Incubation
During incubation, the hen leaves the nest a few times each day to defecate, preen, and bathe. These breaks are brief, so it’s crucial to keep disturbances to a minimum. Cleaning the cage should only be done when absolutely necessary to avoid disrupting the hen.
Handling Goldfinch Eggs
Handling the eggs should be minimized to prevent damage. If handling is necessary, do it with utmost care as the shells are very fragile. Many breeders use plastic eggs to replace the real ones as they are laid. This practice helps synchronize the hatching process, ensuring all chicks hatch around the same time.
Synchronizing Egg Hatching
- Swapping Eggs: Replace each newly laid egg with a plastic egg and store the real eggs in a safe place, such as a bowl with cotton wool or seeds.
- Returning Eggs: Once the last egg is laid, remove the plastic eggs and place all the real eggs back in the nest. This ensures that all the chicks hatch simultaneously, preventing the last chick from being at a disadvantage due to late hatching.
Monitoring Male Aggression
It’s important to monitor the male goldfinch for any signs of aggression during the egg-laying period. The male may chase the female away from the nest, damage the eggs, or disrupt the nest. If aggression is observed, remove the male from the main cage. Using a wire divider can help keep the male separated while allowing the birds to see each other. The female can care for the eggs and chicks on her own, and the male can be reintroduced when the chicks are around 13 days old.
Conclusion
Successfully breeding goldfinches and caring for their eggs requires careful planning and minimal interference. By understanding and accommodating their natural behaviors, providing a suitable environment, and handling the eggs with care, you can increase the likelihood of raising healthy goldfinch chicks. Keep a close watch on your birds and adjust your care practices as needed to ensure a successful breeding season.