FEATURE
with parents attacking independent juveniles that are left with their parents. Nor have there been any problems of juveniles interfering with subsequent nests or fledglings. I have never observed older juveniles adopting a supportive role in the rearing of subsequent broods. At the current cost in Australia of an average AUD $60.00 a pair, the Red-billed Fire Finch is a lovely little bird that is a must have for novices and experienced breeders alike. The only sobering note I make is that it is important that every effort is made to ensure sufficient stocks of “normal” birds are bred. Three colour mutations have been established in recent years and whilst attractive in their own right, could in time, threaten the viability of our stocks of normal birds. These mutations are: pied, pink and fawn. While I continue to maintain a small number of pairs of pied birds, I have discarded the Pink mutated birds. I found this dominant mutation difficult to eradicate from my Fire Finch population and only succeeded in doing so by restocking with all new normal birds. With dedicated breeders and a little luck, such a colourful, inexpensive and easily catered for species is assured a place in Australian bird keeping for decades to come.
The fledglings usually stay together and much of this time may be spent on the aviary floor. Whilst some of the chicks may be seen to be picking around food bowls or on the floor…
The Society would like to thank
Russell for taking the time out of his busy schedule to write this article as we know he is very busy in aviculture. Special thanks to Graeme Hyde for his support with this article. Drawing Pair Red-Bellied Fire Finches - Male: Right Lagonosticta senegala © Howard Robinson
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I have not experienced issues with parents attacking independent juveniles that are left with their parents. Nor have there been any problems of juveniles interfering with subsequent nests or fledglings. I have never observed older juveniles adopting a supportive role in the rearing of subsequent broods.
?? BIRD SCENE 09 13
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