Lady Gouldian Finches

[christie99]

Well, here they are! My newest additions to the flock. These photos were taken while banding the babies.









Mom and Dad (older photos)

Oh Christie Those are so tiny. I've always been interrested in these little birds. Please tell me more about them. Are those the parents in the photo too? Do you hand feed them? And keep me posted on their development I want to see what colors they will be. Thanks for sharing. :)

Donna

[christie99]

Hi Donna!

Yes, those are the parents in the photo. What would you like to know about these little birds? I will gladly try to answer all of your questions.

It is reccomended that you don't hand feed these little guys unless you absoultely need to. The parents are doing a great job, so I don't want to interfere!

The chicks are currently five days old and weigh 4-6 grams each. They are just starting to get pin feathers on their wings.

Basic info on the breed (as I know it) all quotes taken from Lady Gouldian Finch:

Status - endangered, but you don't need a permit to own them as they have been bred domestically for many years.

It is believed that less than 2,500 mature gouldians exist in the wild.

Weight - 15 grams

Lifespan - 7-12 years depending on care and diet.

Reccomended cage size -

Gouldians enjoy flying, therefore, the larger the cage the better. Ideally the cage for a pair of finches should measure a minimum of 36" long by 14" and 10" wide.

Nest - Gouldians prefer to nest in a nest box. I am using a budgie box with alfalfa as a nesting material. They also like bermuda grass.

Incubation - 15 days

Diet - There are several options for diet. One must make sure that their birds have a sufficient source of iodine, or the birds will go bald. I use liquid kelp in the water.

These birds also do not need grit. They hull their seeds so the grit is not necessary.

Harrisons does make a pellet that is formulated now for finches, but I cannot get mine to eat it.

Soft food, seeds, protein, sprouted seed, and vitamins are all a must! I have heard of some Gouldians eating live food, but mine won't touch it.

Christie How are those tiny babies. I want more pics when they start gettin feathers :)

Donna

[christie99]

Hi Donna!

They are chirping away and growing every day! They slipped their bands off from the first banding. I rebanded them last night and they have kept them on so far. :)

They have pin feathers on their tail and wings and their eyes are just starting to open. Their parents finally found the Maricle Meal soft food and are gulping it down instead of the seed. They also have dehydrated greens to eat. I am too afraid of the fresh greens having something on them to feed those right now.





Look closely here and you can see one of their little eyes open.

thanks for sharing, how is that pretty little ringneck of yours?

Donna :)

[christie99]

She is doing great. She was "traumatised" again today by the gardeners. She really would like to take a bite out of one of them.

Other than that, she is my little cuddle bug.

[ladyhawke50]

Those pictures are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing them. You must show us when they start to get feathers. The mother and father are beautiful.

[christie99]

Thank you! I had to put one band back on today. I was frustrated that I had to bug them again. I took a few photos, but I don't think that I will be in the box again if I can help it. I will take photos as soon as the fledge though!
ETA:

Here are the photos from when I had to reband.

I think it's time for update photos on the babies Christie!!!!


Donna :)