Cordon hen RIP

[Damian]

Hi Guys,
I found my Cordon hen dead this morning, I noticed yesterday afternoon she was sitting on the purch very fluffed up, the weather was cool but I didn't feel it was over cold, the gouldians were looking cold also, but that seems normal for them that time of the day, the other birds seemed fine. We did get down to minus 1 deg C last night, and I had the PVC screens down to stop wind. Earier in the day she was as active as normal.

I have no idea what has contributed to the death, and most likely will never know, but if any one has suggestions or ideas of what could be a cause or things I should look out for, your thoughts would be appreciated?

I feed, Avigrain finch mix, apple, cuccumber, corn, millet spray cuttle fish bones. Also some seed grasses I pick from the yard.
The cordon was not harrassed by any of the others, although her mate would often chase the star finches.

Regards
Damian

[Jayburd]

that's a shame.
Hate it when that happens! hope you can find a new one.

[Damian]

Already phoned around with no luck, I would like to replace her but want to do what I can to prevent a re-ocurance if its due to something I am doing wrong.
The Cock is singing his head off, must be missing her also. They were always together and starting to build a nest too.

I have been doing some reading, seems quite a few people have reported loosing the hen, more so than the male. I read one comment that they are best not housed with parrot finches, which I have. I have never witness and conflict between them though.

[jusdeb]

I think this time of year the cold is the main culprit , I guess any bird not 100% in good health will succumb.

[finchbreeder]

Cold and possible egg binding due to trying to lay when too cold? Which is why we lose more hens than cocks.
LML

[Jayburd]

I think a friend of mine has got quite a few, but not sure if he's selling them yet, or if he'd be able to get them too you.

[Damian]

I think a friend of mine has got quite a few, but not sure if he's selling them yet, or if he'd be able to get them too you.

Let me know if he can, also looking for Orange breasted hen.

I did read a little on egg binding simptoms, I am almost certain this has been the case.
The bird has an egg bulging at is passage, I will read more on dietry requiements that will assist in preventing this.
Is there any chance of removing the egg and putting them in a nest? will the male incubate or other breads foster? I'm thinking very unlikely but its worth asking the question!

[Jayburd]

bugger!
he had an ob hen, but Crazy Cuban snaffled it before even I could get it!

[Mickp]

have had no problems housing parrot finches and cordons in the same aviary.
shame your not closer damian, I have a few spare hens at present