Gouldian Hen a No Show......

25 Feb 2011, 20:11

Hey guys I am new to the fourm and only about 18 months back into birds and TRYING to breed them, I have a few Gouldians and one pair my only pair of Common Blackhead Gouldians, the hen laid her eggs about 14 days ago.....so they are probably here now, but I have only seen her once in that time is this common as I am a little worried she has left this mortal coil. I want to check her box but I am worried that if she is still there that she might not go back to her chicks.....what do I do thanks

25 Feb 2011, 20:28

They are a forgiving bird you can have a quick look and see, but if they have hatched you should be able to hear them.

25 Feb 2011, 20:35

I agree with Buz, generally are tollerant of nest inspections, but try not to handle the young to early. And welcome to the forum.

25 Feb 2011, 20:37

I think I would take a look,if she been sitting that long your quick peek isnt going to stop her going back. If there is a problem at least you can try and fix it and not lose the whole breeding season.
Best of luck, fingers crossed for a good outcome for you, let us know what happens

26 Feb 2011, 09:36

Welcome to the forum

I usually check my goulds when they are on eggs or chicks every couple of days and have never had a problem with them leaving the nest. 14 days is right on the edge of so a few more days you may hear the sounds of chicks sqaurking. Good luck.

26 Feb 2011, 23:25

Hey guys, did what you suggested...and checked the box 1. Hen was perfectly fine, she was the best I had ever seen her 2. The box had such a thick canopy I had to push through the swamp grass and definitely seen one chick after that I put the box straight back 3. The hen didn't go back till dark but the cock was in there about an hour after
I played with the nest......

27 Feb 2011, 08:04

Excellent result, Congats

27 Feb 2011, 08:10

Thats great news, something there for your records, that hen sits really tight and can disappear for 14 days with not problems. Sounds like a great parent in the making.

27 Feb 2011, 08:13

Glad it all worked out and you highlighed something that is worthwhile knowing for species that are not sexually dimorphic. Only the hen incubates at night and the pair share during the day.

28 Feb 2011, 20:46

Found another 3 chicks, trying not to disturb Mum to much there are two eggs left....... wait and see if they hatch.