Aussie Finch Forum

Have a nest with stars in the brush and this morning one of the chicks decided to make its way into the big world. Unfortunately it looks a bit underdone but seems healthy enough. Parents are feeding it on the floor but I was wondering would it be better to pop it back in the nest? I have done this before with goulds with no worries but I am led to believe stars can be a bit precious. Aviary is dry and covered in (top, sides etc) but we are expecting some rain here in Sydney for the next couple of days. I don't normally interfere with the stars but I am worried I might lose the rest of the chicks if I put it back.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Matcho

I would leave it be. It may not survive, but I too would be fearful of loosing the entire nest should you try and put it back.

Sad really, but I suppose it is better to err on the side of caution.

Thanks.

What about a box on the floor in the aviary and pop baby in that? Parents can see and feed, baby is up off the floor and out of the cold and can get out if determined.

I'd put it in a carry box & bring it inside to a warm room overnight & put it back into the aviary in the morning. If its that underdone & not able to roost well above the ground a cold night out on its own will likely be the end of it. Putting it back into the nest could cost the whole clutch.

bluebutterfly213 wrote:What about a box on the floor in the aviary and pop baby in that? Parents can see and feed, baby is up off the floor and out of the cold and can get out if determined.

Exactly what happened to me once and thats what I did put open box with grass and feathers near nest but waited till both parents were away n put the young one in....worked for me but at that time I lived in tropics...goodluck

Just went down and checked. It is up off the floor and mum and dad still feeding it. Will monitor with fingers crossed.

Agree with all above.
Sounds like it might be Okay if it's up and perching.
I've also had Stars fledge recently which is crazy given the number of frosts we're currently experiencing.

Each clutch my Stars have (usually 4-5 each clutch) sees one a little underdone and more often than not, they get through. It is one of those learning opportunities where either outcome may or may not work...for mine, I would leave it! It is likley to be ok and the balance of the clutch will remain undisturbed...Toast

Thanks Tony

Will just wait and see. Tomorrow morning will tell the tale.

Matcho