FINCHforum

I just got a pair of little society finches today from a pet store nearby and they seem to be adjusting pretty well so far but I'm concerned about one. S/he squats on the perch, tail up and breathes hard. Almost appears that s/he may be egg-bound (though I've never seen an egg-bound bird before). Any ideas as to what may be wrong and what I can do for it?

(Also, how do you guys quarantine your birds?)

Sounds like egg-bound is a possibility. If you have liquid calcium, I would think it couldn't hurt to give her some. I think the recommendation is a drop on her beak and appropriate doasge in her water. I have also read that a warm (not hot!) bath helps.
I am sure someone with more experience in this area will be along soon! Good luck and keep us posted.

thank you! I caught her and tried to feel around for an egg but I couldn't really feel anything. S/he's sitting on the floor now and since there's nothing I can do for it, I will just let it be for the night and see if there's any improvement in the morning. Will keep you updated!

That does sound like a possible egg-binding. If so, keep her in a small hospital size cage with a heat lamp and humidity. Some people run a hot shower in the bathroom with door closed to give her humidity and help her stretch to lay the egg. Also, if you can catch her, gently rub some mineral oil on her vent area to help her pass the egg. Those items, in addition to the extra Calcium as noted previously should help. Let us know how it goes. Welcome!

A very late update but she is doing fine now! I now know that I have a male because my crested sings often and I caught him on top of the hen once. Babies soon! And then the lady gouldians that I will get on the 16th! I'm officially in love with finches.

Just curious, did she lay an egg or do you think she was just not feeling very well? Happy to hear you have a singer in the group! Bet you'll be seeing some nest building soon!

I didn't find an egg anywhere so I think she was just not feeling too good. Thank you!