Hand feeding owl finch chick at 18 days

[a_gouldian]

Our Owl finch is doing well but it takes longer to feed him now because he looks around more and seems to take longer to swallow his food with more of a chewing motion than just the quick swallow that he did when he was younger. (reminds me of a person having a good meal and savoring every bite) He also is very aware that he has legs now

We are using the toothpick more now instead of the crop tool on the syringe because it seems easier. At 18 days and older is there any advice in differing what we are doing? Is every three hours OK for feedings at this age? His crop is always empty when we go to feed him.

[Sally]

I like the banding tool that comes with split plastic bands. It scoops up more than the toothpick, but it still will take a little time. The crop syringe is so much faster but also easier to make mistakes IMO. You could even go to 4 hours, though if his crop is empty at 3, maybe you want to stay at that schedule, it is up to you.

Sometimes, as they mature, they do slow down a bit on eating, as they are much more aware of what is going on around them and easily distracted. I've even had fledges take a flight around the room and then return to pick up eating again.

[Stuart whiting]

Sally totally agree, well said

[a_gouldian]

A few pics from today - 18 days, the messy eater age

[Barbara]

He is just geting so big very cute.Again I have to congradulate you on a job well done