Tossing hatchlings

[iaos]

I have had three nests this season from two different pairs where they have tossed a single hatchling. They have been two nests of 5 and one of 6. Is it likely that it they were just the last eggs to hatch? Any other ideas?

Cheers Ian

[vettepilot_6]

maybe getting dragged out on quick exit? try using nest boxes with entry hole more to the top....usually if tossing young they will throw the lot...also other goulds pulling young if not enough nests to go around...about how old are they when thrown?

[iaos]

The ones that have been thrown were day old or there abouts. There have been two styles of boxes used, small budgey style and a mike fidler style box. I thought the first one may have been dragged out when they were disturbed, but the parents didn't come off the young when I was feeding them when the chicks were that age. They are in double cabinets on their own, so it isn't another pair interfering.
Cheers

[vettepilot_6]

Only other thing I can think of is feed them more green and sprouted seed...or if they are young parents....good luck

[spanna]

I've found that in large nests occasionally the youngest (last to hatch) may not survive, that may be the case here. The others may be enough to keep the parents busy and beg more strongly than the youngest, so it may not get fed, die, and be removed by the parents.