I have 3 babies ranging from 10 days old to just 6 days old. At this stage they have nothing in the way of nesting material and the bottom of the nest box is a little bit messy. Just wondering if I should add shavings or leave them as they are? Will the hen desert them if I disturb them?? Any help is greatly appreciated. :budgiedance:

:budgiedance: Hello, when my hen lays i don't have any wood shavings or anything added for nesting materials, alot of hens remove it anyway and really its just an easy way to help keep the box clean.

This is a topic that has been bought up quite a few times...

http://forums.budgiebreeders.asn.au/index.php?showtopic=8300

The above link directs you to another section that discusses adding nesting materials

Cheers :beer:

Una

i personally wouldnt add any now since you didnt from the start the smell and feel could have negative action on the hen and she could reject

I agree with Hath. I add shavings before I set up the birds. They are accustomed to it. Give a good next time.

 

The only problem you will have is the babys will get messy with their own droppings. You will have to try to keep them clean.

I've added woodshavings to the nest after the babies have hatched with no trouble. The only thing is the hen throws it out so you have to keep adding it till she gets the hint & leaves it.

all birds are different and if this is her first time breeding i wouldnt risk anything that could disturb a maiden hen if she has had 2 or 3 clutches and turned out to be a good mother then yes i might risk it

i personally wouldnt add any now since you didnt from the start the smell and feel could have negative action on the hen and she could reject

I would put some sawdust in,and if the hen doesn't like it she will throw it out.

i personally wouldnt add any now since you didnt from the start the smell and feel could have negative action on the hen and she could reject

I would put some sawdust in,and if the hen doesn't like it she will throw it out.

 

 

ummm harry thats what she is doing... jenene283 as hath surgests leave it as is until she has a few clutches.