Expert: Chrys Meatyard - 1/3/2008

Question
Hi!  I have a pair of zebra finches (m/f)  I've had the male for about 2 yrs now.  He is working on his 3rd female, as the other two died.  The female I've had for about 8 months now.  The two of them have always gotten along very well.  In fact I've sat on a number of occasions and watched them affectionately snuggle together on the perch and/or groom each other after bathing.  Their behavior has been very heartwarming!   However,  I've noticed in the last week that the male is becoming aggressive towards the female.  He chases her around the cage and when they do have a stand-off, they get into a kind of "boxing match" with their beaks.  Its obvious that the female is intimidated by him any more.  She'll linger in the corner on the floor of their cage and peck at the bars...almost as if she's wanting to get out.  THIS IS DESTURBING ME because I dont like them being mean to each other and I dont know what to do!!  Any information and/or suggestions would be much appreciated.  Thank you!

Answer
Hi, Ann,

I found your question in the question pool this morning.  I don't know why it was not answered when you submitted it.

Perhaps this male has driven the other 2 birds to death (unless there is an explanation as to the cause of their deaths).  I would recommend taking this male out and getting the female another mate.  Some birds just don't make good mates.  You may have to wait and pair this male up with a female that is not intimidated by him and can stand on her own 2 feet, so to speak.  A male bird that behaves like you describe can literally run another bird to death.

Chrys