F. Johnson—The Breeding of Jamieson Firefinches 51


As I had to return to business early the following week, I thought

it best to have a look to see what was really happening and on looking

into the nest out flew the cock. The hen would not move, although

I put my finger in the nest. I came to the conclusion that she was

egg-bound, and I made preparations to deal with it. On going to the

aviary to fetch her to the hospital out flew the little lady, and there in

the nest was one little cream-coloured egg. The noise of both the cock

and the hen made me realize that my place was outside, and not to

interfere with their family affairs, so out I went and I never went near

the nest for ten days. Later I found that they were setting two eggs,

and as the first was definitely laid on 27th August, 1935, I looked in

again 10th September, hoping to find the chicks had hatched out, but

this did not happen until 13th September, 1935. As I had made sure

both were alive, I left them severely alone except for feeding.


I gave instructions to supply them with twenty-four-hour soaked

Indian brown millet and small canary, and also live ant’s eggs,

obtainable from the paddock, but the latter were never touched and

the youngsters were fed entirely on soaked seed.


I took the risk of looking into the nest at the end of seven days

and to my surprise found only one chick nearly half-fledged. The body

of the other was found on the aviary floor, its pin feathers just showing

through, it looked to have only survived about four or five days.

However, the remaining youngster continued to thrive and was seen

on the outside of the nest 29th September. On 5th October he was

fluttering about the branches in the flight with both parents joyfully

following him about, evidently very pleased with their handiwork.


I may mention that the youngster is a very strong bird, and both

parents and he are still outside (20th December) and going strong, and

I fully intend wintering them outside if possible.


May I mention that the F.B.L. representatives have seen the

surviving youngster which is still outside, and as I am endeavouring

to winter it outside I shall be pleased to show any member it, if they will

only make an appointment by ringing Hither Green 4257.



