Tragic End

[Dave in Nara]

I had two 1 week old hatchlings. First attempt for the society parents. They are the only birds in the enclosure. I had been so proud of them. Even worried that they were being over fed as their crops were so very full. The parents seemed very attentive. So much so that I didn’t even check the babes yesterday. This morning when I looked in, the larger one was dead. The smaller one still fighting on but empty crops. I managed to get some boiled egg down the surviving one but hand feeding is really not option. They are still going into the nest but seems they’ve lost interest.
After all I’d read about societies being good parents I’m so disappointed.
My question for all of you experienced keepers, is my pair permanent duds? Will this come up again? Or is it possibly due to in inexperience and they may succeed next time?

[lovezebs]

Dave in Nara

So sorry to hear about this sad and unusual situation.

Is this a first clutch for these birds?

With your little one that's still alive, get some warm handfeeding formula into him. If he begins to beg again, they may start feeding him, but without any food in his crop, he is too weak to beg for food.

As mentioned above, this is an unusual situation, especially with Society Finches, and most especially when they were feeding so well before.

Did something unusual happen in the flight, or close to the flight cage? Something that might have spooked them? A difference in diet or routine?

You ask if they're duds...
Not sure what you mean by that.
They were obviously feeding and doing very well until the last day or so, so I would say that they should make good parents in the future. My guess would be that something must have happened very recently to make them stop feeding chicks this age.

I hope your little one survives.

[Dave in Nara]

I’m such an idiot. I’d been reading about finch care and decided they weren’t getting enough sunlight. I installed a small full spectrum light above the cage. I feel terrible. It’s all my fault. They seemed to enjoy the light so much. I’ve removed it. Don’t have access to baby formula today. Im in japan and I’ll have to order it. I soaked seeds, pellets in warm water and smashed to a pulp. Added boiled egg. He is receptive. I’m inspired by his will to survive.

[Dave in Nara]

Yes. First clutch.

[Dave in Nara]

Took from parents and put in makeshift brooder. I have a thermometer in there. The heat source is from an adjustable foot warmer. Going to a large pet shop tonight to try and find formula.

[Babs _Owner]

Dave in Nara

I'm really surprised as well. I've never known societies to ignor their own begging chick.

I wouldn't be so hard on yourself. Installing a light should not have made any difference.

Is your society a hybrid? A cross with a mannikin or a spice finch perhaps? I've read here that these crosses aren't as good at parenting as a pure society finch.

Pictures of the parents?

[Dave in Nara]

The parent birds are mostly white with a few dark markings. Having a tough time figuring out how to attach the photo to the post. I think this interface is not as easy as other forums I use. It’s getting late in Japan. I’ll sleep and figure it out tomorrow. Thanks for everyone’s support and comments.

[lovezebs]

Dave in Nara

If you can't find anything else, try some baby Pablum mixes. I have a friend who mixes this with water and feeds, when out of hand feeding formula.

Good luck.