This morning, we heard a LOUD chirping, and we suspected that something had changed. We looked in the cage, and a broken egg shell had been discarded out of the nest box and onto the floor of the cage. On turning on the webcam, we could, at first, see only both parents. However, one, and then the other, left the nest box to investigate our activities, and we saw: the first hatchling! Magically, today is also J.s birthday. So, J and the first budgie have the same Birthday.
Sutcliffe seemed to be more annoying than helpful. He was feeding, but, not filling his crop, it seemed. We placed cooked oatmeal into the cage, which was very much eaten by Sutcliffe when he was feeding Boo and Mary ann.
The only minor concern is that we see only two remaining eggs. We don't, however, see any additional eggshells. Has the fourth egg been a casualty of nature? Time will tell.
Meanwhile: it is amazing that this embryonic, almost microscopic creature can make any noise at all, much less, loud cheeping noises. Also, it is quite amazing that this tiny creature could survive. It is not surprising that there is more than a 50% mortality rate for budgie hatchlings. I don't think I have ever seem a more vulnerable appearing creature.
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It is amazing that such a tiny, insubstantial pink creature might grow up to be a budgie, complete with feathers, beak, and attitude.
At one time, I am told, I looked like that myself. I was well-protected at that time, however.
it does seem that being inside a warm, well perfused, other being (ie, your mom) is a very good design. sitting under feathers is also warm, but, a bit precarious. i didn't see the little guy this am, as mary ann was fully spread out on top of things. he does look weirdly embryonic. i wish i could post video! that was the weirdest thing, watching him move around.
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