Birding/zebra finch

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Question
hello we just bought 4 zebra finches. 2 males and 2 females. they are in a new cage now, in a new environment. However, they have all started eating and drinking normally. My question is this: I noticed that they are all putting their orangy beaks and itching their bodies every few minutes. Also, they flutter or stretch their wings quite a lot. Do you know if this is normal and if not, what may be the problem?

Answer
They could just be molting, grooming themselves or they could have mites. It could mean nothing at all.

I am not equipped to say for sure, because I can't observe them myself. I would consult the people who sold you the birds or a vet.

Sorry I couldn't help you more,

Julia

Birding

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Julia Booth

Expertise

I can answer questions about bird identification (by sight or sound), behavior, distribution, population, conservation, mating, nesting, fledging and feeding. I do have some practical knowledge about foreign species, but identification skills are limited in that arena. Bear in mind that as much as I know, it's possible that at least some of you will ask a question that I am unable to answer. At which point I would direct you to wherever or whomever I thought could provide you with that information.

Experience

I have 15 years birding experience in Southern California.

Organizations
Audubon Society

Education/Credentials
My education is in art and photography -but I have a substantial portfolio of nature related work.

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