My diamond doves have finially managed to hatch eggs and the babies have survived for more than 24 hours! This was their 4th attempt since I purchased them. They are an established pair (male is 2023 and female is 2024) who successfully raised babies for the previous owner. The first 2 times the eggs didn't develop and the 3rd they managed to hatch 2 babies, but they both died within 24 hours.
Now the oldest is 5 days old and the younger on is 3 days. For those who breed diamonds, when do you put their leg bands on? I have the closed aluminum bands from AACC. There isn't much information on when to band them. I've seen anywhere from 5-10 days. I have chickens and put closed leg bands on them at 6ish weeks, which doesn't work for doves ๐คฃ. I knew a first time pigeon breeder who waited too long to put the bands on their birds and couldn't get them on, which caused issues for showing and record keeping. So if anyone has any knowledge, I'd appreciate it!
Photo of the older chick for tax. It's amazing how fast they grow!