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I keep and breed a small number of Australian grass parakeets. This blog provides information and pictures of my birds and a log of their breeding activities. It is also a photo blog of landscapes and wildlife. My dog Buster may also make an appearance. For Nest Box Live - click the link above or visit my website!

Saturday 10 July 2010

Bourkes eggs failed...but starting again

Both clutches of the bourkes eggs failed to hatch.  Pinky and Perky's eggs were all infertile (I should have had a closer look) and Rocky and Rosey's eggs were all dead in shell.  The DIS could be due to them being in my shed cage, which gets very hot and dry.  Eggs need a certain amount of moisture to help them to 'breath'.  I've now moved them to the bigger cage which is open to the outside.  Pity, but at least both pairs are preparing to start again.  I thought the turqs were going to start a second clutch, with there being some early mating activity, however now all as gone quite...apart from the bickering.  Goldie is looking a bit scruffy now.  Not much happening with my remaining pair of splendids, Mr Burns and Lisa, although Mr Burns has been showing some interested having just finishing moulting.  Mr Burns now has Lisa or Marge to choose from, as they all in the one aviary.
The turq chicks are doing fine (a bit on the small side, but should soon grow).  The young cock is very flighty and has already smashed his beak on the mesh.  I've now got some better photos of the young turqs...