Post
by Nagdabit » Sat Feb 13, 2010 10:32 pm
Hey Domenic
Like the bright red beak on your CFW male. Really stands out against his light background.
As FinchDegg demonstrated (along with Liz and Janine in other posts) you can't always account for hidden splits with Zebras, so while LeWi's calculations most likely are correct, don't be surprised if a an odd ball or two pop up in your clutch. Our buddy Frost has given us all kinds of different offspring depending upon who he's been coupled with. Actually the only way we even knew he was a dilute FF/ CFW mix (rather than just a solid white) is from the birds he's produced, both CFW's (hens) along with single and double factor Florida Fancies. He also gave us some solid white males when he was with a gray pied hen. If I remember correctly one of her parents was a solid white.
Very few of our birds have come from professional breeders as well. Our first two couples, which have provided the bulk of our breeding stock, came from the local pet store, while most of the others came from folks like ourselves who just raise these colorful little critters for the sheer enjoyment of them. Really we're in the same boat as you since we are unsure of the heritage of most of those birds. To us, part of the fun is just letting them go and see what results. If nothing else our experience has taught us that while there are some certain tried and true guidelines, be prepared for almost anything, cause as they are fond of saying here on the forum, "Zebra's are like a box of chocolates..."
Please let us know if and when your couple gives you some young 'uns. Very curious to see what actually arises.
30+ Zebra Finches (The actual number constantly changes) 2 Rabbits (1 Mini Rex, 1 Dutch), 1 Grouchy Old Fart, and 1 Dang Redhead