Aussie Finch Forum

Hi all,
I hope you're having a great breeding season.

I have always used Unipet fine charcoal for my gouldians and like to keep everything the same when my birds are so healthy.
I have been unable to find it and the two websites that show stock don't in fact have any when I tried to purchase.
I've had no luck contacting the company in the U.K.
Does anyone know where I can find some or a similar product please? I prefer to buy in bulk.

Thanks a lot
Nat

Do you have a wood heater?

Aquarium shops would be a good start if you only want to use commercial supplied activated charcoal. But for the amount of charcoal gouldians eat try making your own from good clean untreated burnt hardwood or collect from a recent bush fire area and crush yourself or leave a charcoal burnt log in your aviary. Craig

Why do Gouldians need charcoal anyway and is it ok to give it to them when they have babies in the nest?

They do use it but in small amounts compared to other Native finches which use it for nesting hygiene. It is a form of internal body cleansing as well as well keeping their teeth clean.

Thanks Craig, I'll provide some floss as well!!

I’m so sorry the reply notifications went to my junk mail. I’d prefer to just buy it if possible and would be worried about picking up a log that has been treated etc as I don’t have a fire.
Has anyone used activated aquarium charcoal?
Thank you
Nat

I haven't used aquarium charcoal, but after all these bushfires that have just passed there should be plenty around if you go for a wander, or if there any local camp sites, check them out.
Then just use the Mortar and pestle to crush it all up, or in a bag with a hammer, your choice
Thanks
Noah Till

Thanks Noah. I’ll ask around for someone with a fire that uses wood I can trust. We haven’t had bushfires down here. The birds love it and hopefully I can just buy some to save time

Anyone who regularly BBQ's and does not use accellerants to start their fires should be able to help.
LML