Gouldian Finches - Colorful flock birds with sensitive souls
Species-appropriate husbandry – How to make them feel comfortable
Life in a Flock
Gouldian finches should be kept at least in pairs, preferably in groups. For groups of 20 birds or more, an additional floor space of 0.05 m² should be planned for each additional bird.
Aviary with Structure
The aviary should be at least 120 × 60 × 100 cm in size – with sufficient perches, hiding places, and a sheltered sleeping area for each bird.
Daily Free Flight
Gouldian finches need daily free flight in a safe room to satisfy their natural urge to move.
Bathing & Observation
Both a water bath and a sand bath should always be accessible – for feather care and well-being.
Cleanliness & Hygiene
🧼 Weekly change
💦 Fresh baths
These delicate exotic birds depend on a particularly clean environment. Dust, dampness, or contaminated feeding areas can quickly lead to health problems.
Maintain Regular Cleanliness
Litter, water, and food must be checked daily and replaced if necessary. Only then will the environment remain healthy and the animals vital.
Complete Basic Care
The entire substrate should be replaced once a week. For larger groups, it is advisable to clean more frequently.
Keep Bathing Areas Hygienic
Clean sand and water baths are mandatory. They are essential for feather care and support the health of these sensitive birds.
Litter
Nutrition
🥦 Herbs & vegetables
🧂 Minerals & grit
Gouldian finches require a fine, species-specific seed mix for estrildid finches. Additionally, wild grasses, herbs, sprouted food, and occasionally finely chopped vegetables are suitable. Animal protein (e.g., in the form of egg food) is important during breeding season. Grit, mineral stones, and fresh water should always be available.
Seeds as Main Food
The basis is species-specific food for estrildid finches. Wild grasses and herbs supplement the diet and provide important nutrients.
Supplement Vitamins
Finely chopped vegetables and sprouted food are valuable additions. During breeding season, protein-rich food is also required.
Mineral Provision
Grit, mineral stones, and fresh water must always be available. They support digestion and promote vitality.
Activity
👥 Living in a swarm
🌿 New incentives
These calm but curious birds love to explore their surroundings: climbing branches, swings, retreats, and bathing areas provide variety. Fresh branches and changing perching spots are particularly popular – this promotes activity within the flock.
Active Environment
Climbing branches, swings, and hiding places make the enclosure more varied. They encourage the birds’ movement and provide them with security.
Together as a Flock
Gouldian finches feel most comfortable in a flock. Together they explore their surroundings, which strengthens their social behavior and well-being.
Provide Stimulation
Their natural urge to explore is stimulated by fresh branches, changing perching spots, and bathing areas, making daily life varied.
