Down the Shed

Siberian Bullfinches

Siberian Bullfinches are substantially larger than Native birds and are said to be easier to breed than the Native subspecies but plenty of people have success with both. The birds use a square nesting box or a canary-style nesting pan and some ventilation in it is a good idea. Coconut fibre may be used to build the nest while some breeders even recommend very thin silver birch twigs.

Their diet leading up to and during breeding should include pinkies and waxworms, often mixed with egg food or even fresh scrambled eggs. Weeds such as dandelion, dock and sow-thistle can also be offered in addition to their normal diet. Apple is a favourite at any time. Sprouted seed should be available when the chicks hatch and are being reared

.Typically, they lay 4-5 eggs that are incubated by the hen. They hatch at 13-14 days and the young fledge at around 16-18 days. To be able to sell birds on thry must be closed rung with a size D ring at four or five days old. Sometimes the hen might reject the chicks when the ring is in place so a little masking tape to cover it disguises it and avoids the problem