Breeding finches or canaries can be an exhilarating journey, especially when it comes to the anticipation of egg hatching and caring for the hatchlings. Understanding the timeline and necessary preparations can make a significant difference in the successful rearing of these delicate birds.
Preparing for Hatching:
The incubation period for finch eggs typically lasts between 12 to 15 days. Monitoring the nest closely from day 12 onwards is crucial, marking the expected hatching date for each egg.
Key Milestones After Hatching:
- Ringing Chicks: Between days 6 to 8, chicks can be ringed for identification purposes.
- Reuniting Parents: If a wire divider was used, males can rejoin females after ensuring nest safety until day 13.
- Temperature Regulation: Around day 13, chicks begin to regulate their body temperature, aided by their feathers and nest environment.
- Nest Rebuilding: Allow at least 7 days between chicks leaving the nest and the female beginning a new nesting cycle.
- Independence: Chicks can be separated from their parents once they start feeding on their own.
Ensuring Successful Hatching:
Before hatching, providing soft food and a bathing bowl helps parents prepare for their chicks’ arrival. If eggs do not hatch by day 12, wait until days 18 to 20 before considering them non-viable.
Water Test for Viability:
A water test can determine egg viability:
- A sinking egg indicates it’s non-developed.
- High floating suggests infertility or a dead embryo.
- Low floating with movement indicates viability and potential hatching.
Post-Hatching Care:
After hatching, chicks are initially fragile, relying on nutritional reserves absorbed before birth. Avoid feeding until they are dry and naturally active, typically after 12 hours.
Feeding and Development:
Chicks double their weight daily initially, consuming a diet of softened seeds, vegetables, fruits, and protein-rich foods like egg yolk. Regular monitoring ensures each chick receives adequate nourishment.
Parental Roles and Monitoring:
Both parents play vital roles in feeding and nest maintenance. Intervention is necessary if any chick appears weak or requires hand-feeding.
Conclusion:
Preparing for finch hatchlings involves meticulous observation, timely interventions, and nurturing care. Each stage, from egg incubation to chick independence, demands attention to detail and understanding of finch behavior. By preparing adequately and monitoring closely, breeders can ensure the healthy development of their finch hatchlings, fostering a rewarding breeding experience.