Aussie Finch Forum

Hi All,

We have a nice pair of St Helena finches that have attempted breeding, but after the hen laid an egg in the early stages, they have abandoned the original nest and made a few nests in between, but without any further success. If other breeders have had successful clutches etc., we would really appreciate any handy tips regarding this particular finch breed.

In terms of diet, we provide meal worms, greens and the occasional soaked seed. Should we increase the frequency of any of these items in their diet or consider separating the pair from the community aviary consisting of Gouldian, painted and OBs when breeding etc. during nesting time?

We live in Perth, WA.

Many thanks folks in advance for your kind feedback.
Bunyip1.

Hi bunyip1 I have breed st helenas, found that my nests were all built in shrub out of grasses and feathers for lining, some wouldn't sit tight on nests while others bred clutch after clutch in an aviery if they leave the nest there's not much that can be dine. As for food I give them finch mix with Canary mix, fruits and vegies- they seem to love corn on the cob, live food and lots of it, 1/2 boiled egg, greens and seeding grasses. Like all finches they like a variety in their diet. When nesting try to nit disturb them because they will abandon their nest.

Is their nest being touched/inspected? If so this would possibly be an issue. Your diet sounds fine for Saints.

if there going to nest their environment seems fine. If they get disturbed as night hard for them to go back to the nest. You didnt state if aviary or cabinet breeding, if cabinet not sure never done it. If they leave the nest again, get the eggs and have a look to see if they are fertile. other than that your diet seems fine as tiaris said. if there young birds they may be still learning, not much more i can add.