Whydahs

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Whydahs are ideal subjects for housing with weavers or birds of a similar size. Because whydahs are among the largest and more aggressive species of finches, do not house them with birds of smaller or weaker species, such as smaller waxbills.

Keep them in a large well-planted aviary, since they must have adequate room to exercise their active nature. Once acclimatized, they will be hardy enough to withstand typical winter conditions in a temperate climate, providing they have access to a snug and protective shelter. During nights of very severe winter weather, however, you should lock your birds in to protect them.

Feeding whydahs is relatively easy, because all they require is a simple mixture of yellow millet, white millet, canary grass seed and rape seed, although an excellent supplemental seed diet can consist of teazle, sunflower seed, flax, niger seed, anise, sesame seed, oats and poppy seed. They will also appreciate a selection of livefood, such as small mealworms and baby crickets, and a limited amount of suitable greenfood.

In addition to the simplicity of feeding and accommodating them, the great appeal of keeping whydahs centres around the magnificent appearance of cock birds throughout the breeding season and their fascinating courtship behaviour. The cock whydahs grow magnificent tail plumes that can reach 28-40cm(11-16in) long. Out of breeding season, whydahs measure only 13cm(5in) and cocks and hens appear very similar, making sexing a difficult task.

Many whydahs are parasitic and will lay their eggs in the nests of other birds. This is why it is vital to choose carefully which birds to house with your whydahs. Most parasitic whydahs target particular species. For example, the paradise whydah parasitizes the melba finch in the wild and will also accept it as a host in
captivity. Therefore, if you wish to breed paradise whydahs, it is essential to house it with melba finches.

The pintail whydah parasitizes more than one species; in fact, it can lay its eggs in the nests of 19 different species of birds.

Although fascinating, their parasitic behaviour produces a poor breeding record in captivity. Nevertheless, you can encourage breeding by housing the birds in a large, naturally planted aviary with a plentiful supply of available nests. Providing the ideal environment is essential for breeding success.