Guide to Gouldian Finches

The stunningly colorful Gouldian finch is one of the most popular bird with finch enthusiasts. This striking little Australian bird is one of the most expensive finches you can buy, with prices ranging from $70 to $250, depending on the color mutation.

Identification

Gouldian finches come in three natural mutations; red-headed, black-headed and yellow-headed. All three mutations have purple breasts, yellow underneath and green backs, though variations of these colorings also exist.

Size And Lifespan

Gouldian finches are between five and five-and-a-half inches in length. Their average lifespan is seven years.

Diet

These birds' diet consists mostly of seed, with millet and niger seeds as the main ingredients. The birds will also need greens like watercress, sprouting seeds and chickweed.

Considerations

These birds are sensitive to low temperatures and are usually housed in indoor flights. They need to be kept in one or more pairs to satisfy their social needs.

Breeding Tips

Give Gouldians plenty of privacy in a breeding cage. Once eggs are lain, give them a chance to rear their own offspring, but you can use Bengalese finches as foster parents, if needed.

References

• "Complete Pet Owner's Manual"; Gayle A. Soucek; 2001

Resources

• Gouldian Finches: Basic Introduction