Gouldian Finch

Important Note: EN - Endangered species - in its natural habitat of Northern Australia. There are likely only 2500 of these left in the wild. Preservation matters! Go online and look for 'save the gouldian' if interested.

Fortunately, these are bred in captivity by hobbiest worldwide. This, of course, helps secure their preservation. I bought a breeding pair a few years ago, and they've turned into a family of 12. They are honestly the most beautiful birds you'll ever see - with far more color variations than shown here. Healthy Gouldians have very tight feathering, like brightly painted porcelain. And their colors are vibrant, almost cartoon-like.

The male's song is soft, but lengthy and detailed in melody. It's fascinating figuring out which juveni... read moreles are males based on how they lean into the father when he's singing, like they're learning the tune...then watching them rasp through their first few attempts at the song.

They don't moult into their colorful plumage until much later than most finches...sometimes close to a year. The juvenile color is a rather drab grey-green. They're fun to watch and, although they don't wish to be handled by people, they are inquisitive when you're "caring" for them gently, and some boldly come to greet you on the side of the cage to watch your every move as you prepare their meal. I've had the male birds actually jump onto my hand while I was crushing eggshells for them during the breeding season. Each seems to have his/her own personality, for sure.

Those interested in keeping these as pets wouldn't be disappointed. However, PLEASE educate yourself on their needs before-hand. The internet is a wealth of information, if sites are well vetted. They don't seem "fragile" to me at all, although many things I've read indicate they are. Maybe mine are healthy and happy, at least in part, because I obsess over them a little. But with very specific nutritional needs, I feel they need the attention if I'm going to raise them.

Search for some photos or videos of these guys online. Look for the male's "dance" while he's in breeding condition. It will be time well spent if you're fascinated with birds...I promise.

Scott