Differences in Parrot finch nests??

[kimberley breeder]

Hi all-

During my inspection of my main breeding aviary this morning I noticed that one of my nest boxes it is absolutely chock full for grass and feathers and tightly packed. There were also 4 eggs that I could see without messing with the nest too much. After I left the aviary I stood back to watch and see who would go back in... I noticed Tricoloureds and RFPFs hanging around the box, but didnt observe one actually go in. I only watch for about 5 mins though.

Was wondering if there were any differences in nest construction or preferences that would help me work out which parrot finches this nest belongs to? Or do I have to be patient and wait for chicks (if they get to that stage).

Assistance and insight would be awesome as this is my first season breeding these 2 species! Thanks all

[Tiaris]

When a nestbox is used it is very hard to differentiate between PF nests by the nest appearance as both tend to stuff the box full. It shouldn't be hard to see which type emerges from incubation duty. Careful with the 2 species together especially if neither pair isn't already breeding - hybrids are possible.

[kimberley breeder]

I knew hybrids between blue faced PFs and Tris were very possible but I did a LOT of reading up on housing RFPFs together with Tris before doing so and the majority of the literature I read suggested it was ok to do this. I have been watching very carefully and hoveonly observed the tris hanging and chasing each other around, same with the RFPFs.

[vettepilot_6]

I knew hybrids between blue faced PFs and Tris were very possible but I did a LOT of reading up on housing RFPFs together with Tris before doing so and the majority of the literature I read suggested it was ok to do this. I have been watching very carefully and hoveonly observed the tris hanging and chasing each other around, same with the RFPFs.

I have kept them together with no problems also....but it was a large aviary and plenty of different nest boxes and cover...with a few pair of each...i aslo never observed any interaction except when feeding or bathing...they never even roosted together at night...but as we all know it can be different with others experiences...

[kimberley breeder]

Mine are in a 6x3x2m planted aviary with plenty of nestboxes and cylinders with brush Pretty sure all will be ok

[Weaver]

I know from personal experience that they will readily hybridize. I would suggest they be seperated.

[Finchman1]

I have noticed that the tricolours build a little ridge right before the main opening of the nest where as the RFPF does not appear to have this ridge

[Tony]

Hi KB.
Glad to hear the Tri's have settled in OK. I have found they build nests any where but do seem to like to be well enclosed. They will stuff a box to overflowing or will burrow into the middle of a hanging basket full of grass and sometimes build their own in the brush. No hard and fast rule but always seem to be well covered and hard too see into. I find light inspection is tolerated but too much interference and they will desert. Good Luck!!