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The Blue-capped Cordon Bleu
(Uraeginthus cyanocephala)
Suitability: Another member of the Waxbill family whichin the case of these guys means that livefood as well as seeds are essential in order for them to be breed to their potential. They love seed mixes with small seeds such as those in our Taste of Africa line which were developed for the Waxbill family – especially guinea grass.
Best kept as single pairs as there may be some aggression between males if you put more than one pair into a smaller aviary. They are much larger than their cousin the Red-cheeked Cordon and care must be taken when purchasing pairs as some unscrupulous breeders will hybridise the two species. Hens are usually in much shorter supply than males!
Breeding: Will not breed without livefood prefer small mealworms and termites but can be reared on fly-pupae and maggots.
Will construct their own nest with swamp grass, white and Emu feathers but are quite often poor nest builders. They also utilise a range of nest boxes and wicker baskets in which to breed in but prefer to build in the brush of the aviary.
Obesity in males can be a problem and a carefully regulated intake of mealworms is critical.
Recommended: For the experienced finch breeder prepared to persevere with a difficult species. The tendency to throw chicks out of the nest for no apparent reason has proved too much for many breeders that I know of! Pairs of these finches can be sensitive to nest inspection so beware!
Mutations: None that I am aware of.
Permits: None required in NSW. |
