Depressed Female Zebra

[Snifyson]

My female Zebra Finch has been very aggravated, and pecking everything. The male mates with her every day, and doesn't let her use some of the toys. She's very small, and the male (Chubby) is about twice her size... I want her to live a happy and long life, what ways can I give Chubby other hobbies? It looks to me she isn't happy with him, but they preen eachother and sleep together. She has layed eggs, but she pecks them open. She's always making crying noises, and doesn't use her mirror too much anymore. How I can help with her problems?

-Cliff

[Ria]

Hello Cliff, welcome to the forum!

Hmmm, your female's symptoms sound kinda vague, but I'll give it a shot. You may want to try separating your birds for a bit. Perhaps chubby is getting too aggressive with your girl, and she needs a break. Has she been laying eggs lately? Her body's calcium supply might be depleted. Lots of egg food, cuttlebone and fresh veggies should get her into good condition. Picking apart her eggs may be a sign she's trying to recoup that calcium.

It certainly is possible that your girl doesn't like chubby. Are they the only birds? She might tolerate sleeping/preening with him only because there's no other choice. I had two zebras that would constantly squabble, the female was always starting trouble. when I placed them with different mates, she calmed right down. too bad the new guy started being aggressive to her...