Zebras not Laying

helmstead · Post by **helmstead** » Sun Feb 17, 2008 3:14 pm

Hello all.

I have a bonded pair of zebras which I received two weeks ago. They are two years old and are proven breeders.

How long should it take for them to settle in and start laying? I haven't gotten a single egg, nor are they working real hard to build up their nest bedding.

Is there anything I should be doing to encourage laying?

Thanks,

FeatherHarp · Post by **FeatherHarp** » Sun Feb 17, 2008 3:42 pm

Welcome to our Perch!

I only have 2 male Zebras so I can't help you but somebody will help answer your question. I love my Zebras...they are so entertaining!

lyderbug · Post by **lyderbug** » Sun Feb 17, 2008 6:27 pm

Traditionally finches will only breed when they are 100% comfortable in their surroundings. Be patient. They may still be adjusting.

As long as the room temp is at a decent temp, there are not a lot of loud sounds(ie:kids or animals), they have a balanced diet, and a good nest to lie the eggs in you should be fine.

Give them a bit more time.

Do the birds appear ok in your home? Are they really jumpy or not eating a variety of seeds,veggies,pellets, and such. Offer them some egg as well as a seed mixture that promotes good health while breeding.

Good luck

Post by **Sally** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 1:02 am

I agree, they are still adjusting to their new home. Two weeks is not much time for them to settle in--I've had birds that took that long to even try new foods. Give them some time, when they are comfortable, they will breed for you.

williep · Post by **williep** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 3:16 am

The biggest secret to breeding finches is patience.

When I started my finch breeding set-up I spend $100's initially and nothing happened! Start slow and spend your time and money on the things your finches need at that moment. A lesson I learned the expensive way.

I constructed flight cages, aviaries and 9 breeding cages before buying my first bird. I also invested in 2 sets of feeding and water bowls for each cage and 2 sets of nest boxes. Granted I am now glad I did all of those things and enjoy my birds but at that point I didn’t even know if it was something that I wanted to dedicate my extra cash and time to.

It all comes back to the basics. Good home, enough right foods and water, good lighting and warmth. Get that right and the rest will follow.

Fancie Flight · Post by **Fancie Flight** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 3:43 am

I agree they will just need time to settle and get into the new digs, also as the days get longer they will thing breeding i imagine like most birds,

Good Luck

helmstead · Post by **helmstead** » Mon Feb 18, 2008 9:55 am

Thanks everyone for your replies!

My husband was telling me to be patient, LOL...so that is what I will do. These birds came from an aviary in a cat clinic, so I'm sure our house with kids, dogs, music...is all a lot to take in.

I have noticed a new noise from them...a cute sqeak and some flirting...so maybe soon.