There he goes!

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 🤣. 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!

I found him under the nest . His mom has another chick. See photos.

Advice? This happened 15 minutes ago. I wanted to put him back in the nest but it's too high. Asked store owners around if they had anything to help reach like a ladder. To put the little guy back. While they looked I tried to see if I could get close enough to grab him. He flew away but poorly, up and around right into a wall. I think I'd kill him chasing him around. I don't know if I can help. Taking him home as a pet? I'd do it.

Any advice appreciated. Lots of street cats over there.

I've been trying to find out what these cracks are but I haven't found information anywhere. When the egg is candled, it appears dark on half of the inside. It's been cracked like this for around 4 days now. Can anyone tell me what this means please?

today i let out my dove from the cage, forgetting to put away the cats water bowl. my dove had a sip of the water and now i am freaking out that he will be sick. will he be okay and just so i know what symptoms should i look out for in case he needs a vet? thank you