I think my finch is depressed

[finchy4ever]

HI all, new to finch forum, and glad to be here!

As of six months ago, I became the proud owner of two beautiful Society finches, a boy and girl. They recently had their first batch, and now we have four birds total. All are doing well.

Within the past day or so, the father is exhibiting a new behavior. He sits on a branch and lowers his head to the height of the branch, and just stays there. He doesn't look like he is resting, more like he doesn't have much energy to lift his head. If startled, he flies away normally and resumes normal behavior.

We have been wondering for a while if they are nutrient deficient, as his beak seems a little gray. WE feed them finch food, and supplement with cuttlebone and greens (3x/wee).

Help!

[Sally]

It is difficult to diagnose without seeing the bird, photos would definitely help. Congrats on the clutch, it sounds like they had two hatchlings. There's lots of good reading at www.finchinfo.com, where you will find many articles on finch care, including nutrition, and especially the Society finch. If you put your general location in your profile, it makes it easier to anwer locale-specific questions later on.

Welcome to the forum!

[debbie276]

Here's information on Nutrients & Their Sources that may be helpful
http://www.finchinfo.com/diet/nutrients_and_sources.php