Former Home of the Dodo

The birds of Mauritius, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, southeast of southern Africa, have a troubled history.  The infamous and now extinct Dodo lived there, and the Pink Pigeon, Mauritius Kestrel and other endemics (species found nowhere else) are barely holding on. 

Legendary conservationist Gerard Durrell became interested in their plight decades ago, and the organization he founded continues his work today.  Mr. Durrell’s work has influenced me greatly (in fact, his efforts to conserve Pink Pigeons are partly responsible for my being hired by the Bronx Zoo…but more on that in the future), so it is with cautious optimism that I read of some recent progress on the Mauritius.

An Overlooked Species Rebounds

As Echo Parakeet numbers continued to decline, most major conservation groups concentrated their efforts on Keas, Black Palm Cockatoos, Kakapos, the parrot trade, and other popular species and causes.  Confined to a nation that drew little international attention, the Echo Parakeet seemed doomed to extinction.  But the Durrell Trust persisted and, aided by the aforementioned groups, has pulled the species back from the brink. 

As of February, 2011, there were approximately 550 Echo Parakeets on Mauritius, prompting the IUCN to down-list the species from Critically Endangered to Endangered.  The release of captive-bred individuals, supplemental feeding and nest site creation slowly but surely turned the tide.

Introduced Parrots and other Threats

Unfortunately, however, the Echo Parakeet’s future is far from secure.  Only one percent of its original habitat remains, and some of the threats to its survival are difficult to erase. 

In a sad coincidence, one of the most serious problems is posed by its close relative, the Rose-Ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri).  Introduced to Mauritius some time ago, Rose-Ringed Parakeets are aggressive colonizers that even manage to survive in “the wild” in NYC (please see article below). They out-compete the Echo Parakeet for nesting sites (tree hollows) and food.  They may also interbreed, and so in time will overwhelm the Echo Parakeet’s gene pool.  Introduced Honeybees also displace the birds from nest sites, which even in intact habitats are always in short supply.

Other threats include egg and chick predation by Black Rats, which are highly arboreal (as their alternate name, Roof Rat, suggests), agricultural development, and habitat alteration caused by pigs and other domestic animals. 

Disease Outbreak Sparks New Concerns

A recent outbreak of Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease is of great concern.  While stable populations can endure natural disease cycles, Echo Parakeet numbers are very low, and the entire population dwells within a single, tiny habitat.  One major disease event could, in theory, kill every remaining bird.  Likewise, the effects of typhoons and fires will be magnified.

Researchers continue to battle the disease, drawing from lessons learned when working with other endangered parrots.  The Cape Parrot, Africa’s rarest, has also been hit by Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease.  Please see this article to learn what is being done to prevent this species, and the Echo Parakeet, from going the way of that other Mauritius endemic, the Dodo.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook.  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Video: wild Echo Parakeets

Natural History and Photos

Rose-Ringed Parakeets in NYC

Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust

Echo Parakeet image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Colin Houston

Post from: That Bird Blog


Echo Parakeet Conservation – World’s Rarest Parrot, Back from the Brink

Description

In place of the Cutthroat Finch’s attractive splash of color (please see photo), the male has a bright red or crimson head, and his breast is beautifully marked with black-rimmed white spots.  Females lack the red head and are more somberly-colored in general.

The alternate common name, Paradise Sparrow, is apt – in part due to the brilliant plumage but also because this 5 ¼ inch-long bird is stoutly built, and puts one more in mind of a sparrow than a typical finch.

Natural History

The Red-Headed Finch inhabits southern Africa, where it ranges from Angola through Zimbabwe to South Africa.

It is a bird of open thorn-scrub habitats and brushy veldts, but also frequents farms, villages and even cities.  Red-Headed Finches breed colonially, utilizing abandoned weaver nests, tree cavities, and holes in building walls.

Housing

Red-Headed Finches may be kept in large finch cages or outdoor aviaries.  Although they nest in colonies, only a single breeding pair should be kept in a cage.  In an aviary or flight cage, multiple pairs may be housed together, but their behavior should be closely monitored for signs of aggression.

In spacious quarters, Red-Headed Finches may be kept with Java Rice Birds, Spice Finches, Button Quails and similar birds.  They also get along with Cutthroat Finches, but will interbreed with them and produce fertile hybrids.

Diet

A thick, conical bill allows the Red-Headed Finch to consume a wide range of seeds.  Those I’ve cared for did well on finch seed mixes that had been bolstered by a high-grade parakeet diet.

Millet sprays hung from perches will keep both you and your birds occupied and entertained for hours.

Small live insects (mealworms, waxworms, crickets), Egg Food and softbill pellets, while not essential outside of the breeding season, should be provided several times weekly; silkworms and other canned insects should be used to add variety to the diet.

Fresh sprouts, carrot tops, and small amounts of chopped kale, dandelion and other greens will round out the diet.

Increased amounts of protein-based foods and fresh produce are necessary during the breeding season, and for parents with chicks.

Grit and cuttlebone should always be available.

Breeding

In common with some other birds native to harsh habitats, Red-Headed Finches may be stimulated to breed at any time of the year if a nest box is provided.  Many owners have found that they are sometimes “too willing” to attempt nesting – starting out when given a box but failing due to age, aggression, poor condition or other factors.

While these prolific birds will utilize nearly any type of box, the natural situation is to weave an elaborate, globular nest with a tunnel-like entrance way.  Superior results will be achieved if they are provided with a parakeet or large finch nest box and an ample supply of dry grass and nesting hair.

Both parents incubate the 3-6 eggs for 12-13 days.  They are quick to abandon the nest if disturbed, so resist the urge to check on their progress.  The chicks fledge on day 21-24, and are usually sexually mature within 6 months.  However, breeding should be delayed until they are at least 1 year of age.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook.  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Video: pair of Red-Headed Finches

Red-Headed Finch Natural History, and great photos

Cutthroat Finch Study (desert-adapted population)

Red-headed Finch image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Hans Hillewaert

Cutthroat Finch image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Daniel Crookston

Post from: That Bird Blog


The Natural History and Captive Care of the Red-Headed Finch or Paradise Sparrow

History

The species that gave rise to the Society Finch, members of the family Estrildidae, are native to southern Asia and closely related to Indian Silverbills, Tri-Colored Nuns and many others popular in the pet trade.  The Society Finch most likely arose as a distinct species (or subspecies) in Japan, but there is also evidence that Chinese breeders had a hand in its development.  The details are unclear.  

A wide variety of color phases, such as fawn, white, piebald and black, have been produced.  Certain strains vary in size, feather appearance and behavior, with some being harder to breed than others.

Sociable in the Extreme

Society Finch is an apt name, as these little birds are, indeed, quite “social”.  Society Finches breed readily, and have highly-developed parental instincts.  In fact, breeders and zoos routinely use them as foster parents for the chicks of other species.  Fostering is useful in the case of abandoned chicks, and essential to a breeding technique known as “double-clutching”. 

Double-clutching is used to obtain the maximum number of offspring from a pair of birds; breeders pull the first clutch (to be reared by foster parents), so that the female will produce another.  Double-clutching is also well-known to zoo aviculturists…I successfully used this technique at the Bronx Zoo with Mauritius Pink Pigeons, which were fostered by Ring-Necked Doves (after a time, the Pink Pigeon chicks exceeded their foster moms in size, but the hard-working doves somehow managed to produce enough “pigeon milk” for their giant “guests”; I do recall that the doves consumed a great deal of food!).

Society Finches are quite accommodating, where breeding is concerned, in other ways as well.  Two or more females will use a single nest if not discouraged, and groups will crowd into tiny nest boxes to roost.  They will reproduce in mixed species aviaries, and have even been known to take over the nests of unrelated species and “kidnap” their chicks!  Society Finches will also form same sex pairs, and have been cross-bred with unrelated species, including Star and Zebra Finches. 

In common with the Zebra Finch, a willingness to reproduce under highly artificial conditions has rendered Society Finches as important laboratory subjects.

Captive Care

Society Finches will thrive in either indoor finch cages or outdoor aviaries.  When properly acclimated and provided with a dry shelter, they are quite cold-hearty.

A good finch seed mix, comprised largely of canary seed and millet, will meet most of their needs.  Pairs rearing chicks do best when provided with sprouts and egg food, but the young can also be successfully reared on seed alone.  Grit and cuttlebone should always be available.

Breeding

Standard finch boxes will be readily accepted as nest sites. Despite their eagerness to reproduce in captivity, most Society Finches will not tolerate nest inspections, and may abandon their eggs if disturbed.  As they are usually excellent parents, breeding pairs are best left to their own devices.

If several pairs are kept, care should be taken that multiple females do not use the same box.  The eggs, 4-8 in number, are incubated for 14-18 days.  Healthy females are very prolific, but producing more than 3-4 clutches per year may weaken them.  The young fledge at day 20-21, and may reproduce when 3 months old.  Ideally, however, Society finches should not be paired until 6-8 months of age.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook.  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Society Finches as Foster Parents

Photos: Black-Brown and other Color Phases

Video: Society Finches grooming and interacting

Keeping Nuns, Munias and other Society Finch Relatives

White-rumped Munia image referenced from wikipedia and originally by J M Garg

Post from: That Bird Blog


Keeping the Bengalese or Society Finch – the World’s Only “Manmade” Finch

Natural History

With his jet black plumage and bright yellow bill and eye-ring, the male European Blackbird is quite striking.  Females, clad in dark brown, have their own subdued beauty.  White-splotched individuals appear regularly (please see photo), and albinos have been selectively bred in captivity.

The European Blackbird’s huge range extends from the UK east and southeast to northern Iran and China.  Several subspecies have been described, and introduced populations are established in Australia and New Zealand.

Originally birds of open woodlands and overgrown fields, theses hardy generalists have adapted to life among people, and frequent farms, suburban gardens and large cities.

European Blackbirds as Pets

Although declining in some parts of England, the European Blackbird is generally common, and in the springtime fledglings are often picked up by well-meaning individuals and raised as pets. They usually prove to be quite responsive to people, and this remains the main way in which Blackbirds find their way into captivity.

However, European Blackbirds are also being captive-bred, and they are sometimes available in the USA through breeders and importers specializing in exotic softbills.  Hand-raised youngsters make interesting pets, and parent-raised birds usually tame down readily.

Here in the USA, where Crows and European Starlings are common, folks tend to think of black-feathered birds as loud and raucous.  However, the European Blackbird is closely related to the Song Thrush, and the male sings in a soft, melodious voice. Their alarm calls, like those of many birds, are loud and hash.

Housing

Active and cold-hearty, European Blackbirds are best kept in large, well-planted aviaries.  Life in an outdoor aviary is a great way of keeping these inquisitive birds occupied and interested in their surroundings.  Whether hunting or scolding a passing competitor, Blackbirds kept outdoors tend to be more active and vigorous than indoor birds.

A custom-made cage is best for indoor housing, although well-habituated individuals will adjust to large macaw cages.  Out-of-cage time in a bird-proofed room should also be provided.

Diet

These attractive songsters are insect specialists, but also take a great deal of fruit at certain times of the year.  A highly varied diet, packed with insects and other protein-rich foods, is essential if you want to keep your birds in peak color and condition.  I’ve always maintained insect traps, such as the Zoo Med Bug Napper, to help meet the needs of the birds under my care.

Pets fare well on high-quality commercial insectivorous bird food (please write in if you have difficulty in locating this) into which has been mixed Softbill Select, Myna Pellets, hard-boiled egg and some cooked ground beef.

European Blackbirds relish grasshoppers, katydids, earthworms, crickets, spiders, sow bugs, beetles, termites, moths, mealworms, waxworms, maggots, silkworms – almost any invertebrate, in other words!  Please see these articles on Collecting Feeder Insects to learn more about increasing dietary variety.

Canned snails, grasshoppers and silkworms, marketed for use with captive reptiles, are a convenient means of increasing the nutritional content of Blackbird diets. 

Fresh fruit, including figs, apples, plums, grapes, pears, berries and seasonally available varieties, should be offered daily; squash, cucumbers, carrots and cooked yams should also be tried.  Your bird will likely enjoy prepared fruit/vegetable based “cook-and-serve” foods formulated for large parrots.

Wild European Blackbirds forage by tossing dead leaves aside to reveal hidden insects.  Pets never lose their “tossing tendencies”, and can create quite a mess at mealtime.

Breeding

Captive breeding is regular but not common, and is best attempted in an outdoor aviary.  Indoors, one should adjust the day/night cycle to match that of their natural range.

A supply of dry grasses and mud is essential for pairs that are preparing to nest.  The nest will be constructed by the female, but the male “helps” (enthusiasm in this regard varies…some males seem more of a nuisance than anything else!) to gather materials.  A nest box or thick shrub will be used. 

The eggs, 3-6 in number, are blue-green and speckled with reddish spots.  They are incubated by the female for 13-16 days, and the male helps with feeding once the chicks hatch.  The youngsters fledge at 2 weeks of age, but are fed by their parents for an additional 2-3 weeks. 

A steady supply of live and canned insects (please see above) is essential if the chicks are to be raised successfully.  In fact, their insatiable appetites are likely the main reason for the scarcity of captive-raised Blackbirds.  Some estimates place their needs at over 100 insects each, per day; this is in line with what I have read in field research reports on similar species.  One can easily see how important Blackbirds and other insect-eaters are to people, but their dietary needs do complicate captive breeding.  I’m not aware of any attempts to provide parents with insect substitutes, but this tactic often fails with other highly-insectivorous birds.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook.  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,
Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Video: Blackbirds feeding young, hunting

Natural History information, photos and videos

European Starlings as Pets

 
Blackbird Male image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Tony Wills
Whiteblotched Blackbird image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Dumi

Blackbird Chicks image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Bryan Snelson

Post from: That Bird Blog


European Blackbirds as Pets – Captive Care and Natural History

Troubles and Opportunities

The Rare Finch Conservation Group (RFCG) was formed in 2005, but has already made significant progress in addressing the problems that face Uganda’s finches.  Mountain Gorillas act as “umbrella species” for the region’s wildlife – concern for them indirectly benefits many animals – but the RFCG believes that finches and other small birds deserve more direct conservation action.  The organization is currently formulating a plan to study the needs of a locally-endangered bird, Shelly’s Crimsonwing. 

The national park is located in Uganda, but the Impenetrable Forest extends into the Democratic Republic of Congo.  The forest’s location on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, and adjacent to Virunga National Park, renders it one of the world’s most biologically diverse and unique regions.  Unfortunately, armed conflicts, poverty, and political instability have long been a fact of life there, although there are now some bright spots.

A Finch Diversity Hotspot

An astounding 43 finch species have been observed in the park, and others likely await discovery.  Among them, birders and finch breeders will recognize both pet trade and rarely-seen species, including the Yellow Bishop, Grosbeak Weaver, Pin-Tailed Whydah, Black-Headed Waxbill, Green-Backed Twinspot, Bronze Manikin, Oriole Finch, Quail Finch and Golden Breasted Bunting.  The area may, in fact, host more finches than anywhere else on earth. 

While finches are the highlight of the RFCG’s birding trips, broadbills, hornbills, turacos and over 350 other species are also present.  Expedition participants may also be treated to such rare finds as Giant Forest Hogs, African Golden Cats or any of over 120 other mammals. 

Traditional Medicine and Witchcraft

I was glad to see that the RFCG’s excursions went beyond birding and offered options to visit local bird breeders and traditional medicine markets.  Both affect finch conservation, and direct contact with them may give visitors a deeper understanding of the many complex issues involved. 

For example, reliance upon wildlife as food and medicine, and the use of witchcraft, continue to be important factors even in large cities such as Johannesburg.  Seeing this first hand would seem an useful means of helping people from outside the region to think of conservation in practical, rather than ideal, terms.

Please check out my posts on Twitter  and Facebook .  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

A List of Bwindi’s Finches

The Land and Wildlife of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Conserving Hawaii’s Finches and other Birds

Calyptomena viridis image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Doug Janson

Vidua macroura image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Alan Manson

Post from: That Bird Blog


Conserving and Observing Finches in Uganda’s Impenetrable Forest

Wildlife Oasis amid Ranches

Managed by the World Land Trust, Barba Azul Reserve is comprised of tropical savannas, “forest islands” and marshes.  I had the good fortune to work in a similar area inVenezuela, and can attest to the incredible diversity of wildlife that such habitats support.  As was true for protected areas in Venezuela, Barba Azul is surrounded by huge cattle ranches. 

While ranch owners often protect wildlife (I and colleagues marked over 500 Green Anacondas on a single ranch inVenezuela!), water management practices and fires lit to burn off dead grass threaten the animals that congregate in nearby reserves.  At Bara Azul, extensive firebreaks have been constructed to protect the area.

One of the World’s Rarest Parrots

Clad in brilliant turquoise and yellow, the huge Blue-Throated Macaw is found only in northern Bolivia.  Believed extinct until 1992, it is classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN and listed on CITES Appendix I. 

Up to 110 individuals occupy or use Barba Azul Reserve, the only such concentration known to exist.  At least 7 pairs are raising chicks.  Outside of the reserve, Blue-Throated Macaw sightings are limited to pairs or single birds that occupy cattle ranches separated from one another by hundreds of miles.  In such circumstances, viable breeding populations will not likely become established.

Other Notable Reserve Residents

A number of other creatures that are uncommon in the surrounding area, including Giant Anteaters and Marsh Deer, have established themselves at Barba Azul reserve.  The presence of a wide variety of predators, including Maned Wolves, Jaguar, Jaguarundi, Bush Dogs (see photo) and Puma indicates that a complex, functioning ecosystem is in place. 

This bodes well for the Blue-Throated Macaw’s future, although species that survive in one location only are considered to be extinction-prone.  Other rare birds that have been documented breeding within the reserve include Orinoco Geese, Black-Masked Finches and Short-Tailed Tyrants.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook .  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Blue-throated Macaw videos and info

Conserving the Blue-throated Macaw

World Land Trust and other noted conservation organizations; useful overview

Blue Throated Macaw image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Jeff Kubina

Bush Dog image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Paul Reynolds

Post from: That Bird Blog


Blue-Throated Macaws Cling to Survival in a Single Bolivian Reserve

General Considerations

If you’ve ever been surprised by the volume of noise a budgie or lovebird can generate, consider what their massive relatives can do!  Macaw vocalizations must be heard to be believed.  I’ve observed Scarlet Macaws and others on Venezuela’s wide open grasslands, and have worked with them in huge zoo exhibits – even in these habitats, their calls were often deafening.  Highly social, it is in their nature to vocalize almost continually. 

Innate sociability drives macaws to bond with people, but many owners underestimate what this means.  An hour or 2 spent with your bird before and after work is rarely enough to meet its needs.  Wild macaws are never out of contact with mates and flock members for long…pets, especially those housed alone, demand more attention than most owners can provide.  And even with a great deal of close contact, the relationship can be rocky.  While macaws can be among the sweetest of all pets, most have very strong personalities and will test you on a regular basis.  Large, powerful beaks and brains render them as birds to be taken seriously.

All parrots, even the tiniest, need lots of space.  This fact of parrot life takes on greater importance when your pet is a 30-40 inch long, highly active macaw. Close confinement is torturous for macaws, and will lead to a host of often irreversible problems.

The aforementioned points apply to all macaws. Following is some information that is specific to individual species. Please bear in mind that while a species may exhibit certain tendencies, individual personalities will vary, and a bird’s past history will greatly affect its potential as a pet. As with all animals, certain individuals will appear to break all of their “species’ rules”.

Big and Beautiful, but…

The spectacularly beautiful Scarlet Macaw is among the world’s most recognizable birds.  However, as regards pet potential, its beauty is often “skin deep”.  Scarlet Macaws are strong-willed and quick to take offense.  This, coupled with their natural tendency to communicate physically, i.e. by nips and bites, renders them as birds best left to well-experienced keepers.

Other species sharing the Scarlet’s characteristics are the Military, Severe and Buffon’s Macaws.

Ideal Large Macaw

The Green-Winged (Red and Green) Macaw is an excellent “alternative” to the Scarlet. Among the largest of its family, the Green Wing looks a lot like the Scarlet Macaw, but is, in general, a much calmer bird.  Most individuals have very steady personalities, and many develop impressive vocabularies.

The Blue and Gold Macaw has been a favorite of mine ever since I cared for a group of youngsters at a bird importer’s facility many years ago.  My boisterous little gang acted like a bunch of puppies, even rolling on their backs and “pawing” the air.  In time, I learned that many keepers considered Blue and Golds to be among the most intelligent and playful of all macaws.  They are loud, but almost always mild-mannered, and very “forgiving” of typical first-timer mistakes.

The Blue-Throated Macaw puts one in mind of a scaled down Blue and Gold, and is also a good choice for those new to macaw keeping.

The huge Hyacinth Macaw, largest of all, often makes a fine pet and mimics words quite well.   At once imposing and beautiful, Hyacinths demand a great deal of attention but are usually very gentle to those with whom they bond.

Mini Macaws…a Wonderful “Compromise”

At 10-11 inches in length, Hahn’s Macaw is the world’s smallest.  However, along with the slightly larger Noble Macaw, it is a true macaw in every sense of the word.  If you’re looking for a giant parrot in a small package, either will fit the bill.  Both are sociable, playful and, like most macaws, a bit loud.  The Noble is often steadier in personality than the Hahn’s, and less likely to bite when disturbed.

The Yellow-Collared Macaw is small by macaw standards, but requires a calm, knowledgeable owner who can control its free-wheeling temperament.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook .  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Observations on Wild Scarlet Macaws

Hyacinth Macaw Conservation

Macaw Overview: further thoughts on various species

Scarlet and Blue and Gold Macaw image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by eddy
Red and Green Macaw image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Lee

Hahn’s Macaw image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Snowmanradio

Post from: That Bird Blog


Is a Macaw the Right Pet for You – a Species-by-Species Review

Description

The African Silverbill may seem “plain” to some, but its varied shades of brown, tan, buff, fawn and black both blend and contrast, lending this 4 inch-long mite a unique beauty.  The sexes are alike, but only males produce the pleasant, warbling song. 

Chocolate, fawn, cinnamon, white and other mutations have been produced, often influenced by related species with which the African Silverbill has been crossed.

Range and Habitat

The African Silverbill’s range extends in a narrow band across Sub-Saharan Africa and south through central East Africa.  It has been introduced to Hawaii, Puerto Rico and elsewhere.

It is a bird of open savannas, brushy grasslands and farm edges where grass seed, its primary food, is plentiful.  Shy but adaptable, African Silverbills often nest among roof eves and in other sites near people.

Housing

African Silverbills adapt well to standard finch cages, but should always be provided with as much room as possible.  Outdoor aviaries are a great option, especially given that they mix well with other small, peaceful finches and softbills.

Diet

I favor dietary variety for most birds, but African Silverbills have rarely responded to my efforts in this regard!  They favor canary seed, and do well on a high quality finch/canary mix.  Some individuals will accept a bit of egg food or hard-boiled egg, but most do not; even insects are usually disdained.  Sprouts and shredded greens may be taken, and should always be available to breeding pairs.  Millet spray is a great favorite and will keep them occupied for hours.

Grit and cuttlebone should always be available.

Breeding

African Silverbills are ideal for those new to finch reproduction and are also excellent subjects for advanced breeders wishing to experiment with color morph creation.  However, breeding pairs are quite sensitive to disturbances, so it is best not to check on the eggs or young.  This is usually unnecessary anyway, as African Silverbills make fine parents if left to their own devices.  In fact, they are sometimes used to foster the chicks of other finches.

The carefully woven, enclosed nest will be constructed in a basket, open finch box or, outdoors, in a thick shrub.  The 4-6 eggs are incubated by both parents for 13 days.  Soaked seeds, sprouts and chopped greens should be provided to the parents once the young hatch.

The chicks fledge in approximately 20 days, and are fed by their parents for an additional 2-3 weeks.  The family continues to get along as the youngsters age, and they will roost together at night within the nest in a most amusing fashion. 

Hybrids have been produced between African Silverbills and Zebra Finches, Indian Silverbills (they and Africans were once considered to be the same species), Spice Finches and numerous other species. 

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook .  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Video: Silverbills constructing a nest

Feral African Silverbills on Hawaii

Keeping other Silverbills

Indian Silverbill image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by J.M. Garg

Post from: That Bird Blog


The African Silverbill – a Near-Perfect Finch Pet

Description

The 11-inch-long Bronze-Wing’s beauty lies not in bright, “screaming” plumage but rather in a subtle blend of colors.  It may at first appear somewhat dull, but closer inspection will reveal that the body plumage is dark purple to navy blue, and overlain with a bronze tint…quite attractive and ever-changing with light levels.  The pink eye ring and pink-edged head feathers add to its unique appearance, and red coverlets decorate the tail.

Natural History

The Bronze-Winged Parrot’s range lies in a narrow band that extends from northwestern Venezuela (where I once unsuccessfully searched for it) through Columbia and Ecuador to northwestern Peru.  It is mainly found in wet, mountainous forests, and has been observed at over 9,000 feet above sea level (please see photo).  Lowland forests and cleared areas are sometimes utilized as well.

Not much is known about the Bronze-Wing’s life in the wild, as it usually forages high in the forest canopy and is therefore difficult to study.  Fruit, especially various figs, is believed to comprise the bulk of the diet.  Outside of the breeding season, it forms small groups and large flocks.

Bronze-Winged Parrots as Pets

Bronze-Wings are usually described as “gentle but easily excited”.  My own experience is in line with this, and I recommend them for owners with a gentle touch and calm household. 

Despite their reputation as “sensitive” parrots, Bronze-Wings have great pet potential, and may reach age 30-40.  In the right situation, they remain quite calm and are easily tamed. Once accustomed to their owners, Bronze-Wings enjoy close contact and many become quite playful.  Some owners report that males have a tendency to bond closely with one person, and to be aggressive to others.

They are rather quiet as parrots go, although their high-pitched voices are sometimes hard to take.  Although not known for extensive vocabularies, many will learn a few words. Like other Pionus parrots, Bronze-Wings will wheeze when stressed, often leading owners to suspect a respiratory infection.

Housing

Although not very large, Bronze-Winged Parrots are quite active and seem especially prone to stress-related disorders when kept in small enclosures.  Large cages or aviaries are ideal, and daily out-of-the cage time is essential.  Pairs that are closely confined may over-preen one another to the point of severe feather loss. 

Some owners report that Bronze-Wings chew and bathe more than most parrots; I have not noticed a significant difference between them and other Pionus parrots in these regards.

Diet

Fruit and greens figure highly in the natural diet of Bronze-Winged Parrots.  Perhaps because they are often fed an over-abundance of seeds and nuts, pets have a tendency to become obese.

Provide your Bronze-Wings with a wide variety of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis, and be sure to search out “exotic” varieties if these are not available from your usual store.  Pomegranate, prickly pear fruit, apples, kiwi, carrots, peas, corn, dandelion, kale and many other types of produce will be readily accepted (introduce new foods slowly to avoid digestive upset).

The balance of the diet should be comprised of a good small parrot seed mix. Avoid diets formulated for larger species, and be sure to sprout a variety of seeds for them as well (please see article below).

Breeding

Breeding is best attempted in large aviaries.  Bronze-Wing clutches average 2-4 eggs, which are incubated for 24-27 days.  Only the female incubates, but the male often sits beside her in the nest hollow – the mothers among my readers must, I’m sure, wonder just how “useful” this is!

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook.  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,

Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Video: Wild Bronze-Wings feeding

Pionus Parrots (several species) as Pets

Sprouting Seeds for Birds

Bronze-winged Parrot image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Randy

Bronze-winged Parrot image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Yve5

Post from: That Bird Blog


The Natural History and Captive Care of the Bronze-Winged Parrot

Natural History

The 5-inch-long Tri-Colored Munia is found in southern India and Sri Lanka.  It is most common in and near swamps, flooded meadows, riversides, rice fields and other moist, open habitats. 

The Black-Headed Munia was long considered to be a subspecies of the Tri-Colored, but has now been designated as a distinct species.  However, captives interbreed readily, and will also pair up with related finches. Its natural range, which lies north and east-southeast of the Tri-Color’s, extends from northern India through southern China, Thailand and Vietnam.  It tops out at 4.5 inches in length.

Both species rely upon grass seeds as their primary food, and may form large flocks outside of the breeding season.

Captive Care: Housing

Due to their diminutive size, Munias are usually kept in quite small cages.  While most will adjust to such accommodations, they will be much more content and active (and more interesting to observe!) if provided with a large flight cage. 

Outdoor aviaries are ideal for small groups.  If not crowded, they will get along well with other similarly-sized finches, but aggression can occur during the breeding season. 

Diet

A high quality finch seed mix containing dehydrated fruit and vegetables (they do not take much fresh fruit, but seem to benefit from dried bits included in commercial diets) should form the basis of the diet.

Small amounts of chopped kale, romaine and other greens, as well as fresh sprouts, should be offered several times weekly.  Soaked seed are beneficial to pairs rearing chicks.

Although most accounts claim that Tri-Colored and Black-Headed Munias will not eat insects, those under my care have taken waxworms, mealworms, wingless houseflies and small crickets.  Perhaps food preferences vary among different populations, and this is reflected by captive bred descendants.  In any case, I suggest offering insects, especially during the breeding season.

grit and cuttlebone should always be available.

Breeding

Breeding is most likely to occur when a pair has plenty of room.

In the wild, both species construct a covered, oval nest of dried grasses and moss, usually located 6-8 feet above-ground.  Nesting baskets may be accepted by captives.

Both parents incubate their 4-5 eggs for 12-14 days.  The young fledge when they are approximately 3-4 weeks old.

Special Considerations

In common with other savanna-adapted finches, Black-Headed and Tri-Colored Munias have very long, curved nails that assist them in clinging to swaying grass stems while feeding. Their nails grow quickly and may become entangled in cage mesh or wire if not trimmed regularly.  Be sure to seek assistance from an experienced bird keeper or veterinarian if you are not familiar with nail-clipping.

Please check out my posts on Twitter and Facebook.  Each day, I highlight breaking research, conservation news and interesting stories concerning just about every type of animal imaginable.  I look forward to hearing about your interests and experiences as well, and will use them in articles when possible.

Please also post your questions and comments below…I’ll be sure to respond quickly. 

Thanks, until next time,
Frank Indiviglio

Further Reading

Black-Headed Munia videos and sound recordings

Finch Facts: an overview

Video: wild Tri-Colored Munias

Basic Finch Care

 
Black Headed Munia image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Heini Wang and Snowmanradio
Tri-color Munia image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Krayker
Munia Nest image referenced from wikipedia and originally posted by Kguirnela

Post from: That Bird Blog


Natural History and Captive Care of Tri-Colored and Black-Headed Munias