newbie from Werribee

[oasiscdm]

Hi all
My name is Colin and I am interested in getting into owning and breeding Gouldian Finches.

Not sure where to start. I am really interested in finding out much more about these colorful birds. I have ordered a book, looking at aviary construction. I am interested in the various mutations available and how you breed these.

I also would like too find some reputable breeders in Victoria. I have read Don Crawford articles and feel going that route is best.

I used to breed Budgies and canary's when I was a kid [many many years ago now].

Any suggestions, ideas advice is welcomed.....

[finches247]

Hi Colin & Welcome to the Forum

[loz]

Hi Colin.
Welcome to the forum.
Cheers,
Loz.

[Craig52]

Hi and Welcome to the Forum Colin Cheers Craig

[Diane]

Hi and welcome to the forum
Once you have made 5 posts you will be able to access all the forum. In various sections you will find topics on aviary construction, many with detailed photos, a dedicated profile for Gouldians and a Mutations topic.
You will also have access to the Classifieds section of the forum, the newsletters with many articles mostly written by our members on all aspects of bird keeping.
We also have a Merchandise section for supplements and medications you may wish to buy.

[TomDeGraaff]

G'day Colin.
Glad you've joined us
Tom

[finchbreeder]

Welcome to the forum. Short answer, feed and house Gouldians much as you did your Budgies and Canarys and you have started with most of the basics right. Then keep reading for the finer details. Good luck.
LML

[panthersteve]

Hi and welcome to the forum Colin

[karl]

Welcome to the forum colin

[Andrew]

Welcome Colin.

I think some good starting advice would include the following:

1. Visit aviaries of people who keep Gouldians in your area. Learn from their design successes and faults.
2. Run your designs through this forum and sift through the subsequent comments.
3. Start keeping less expensive finches in the aviaries first, kind of as a test subject. This will help reduce obvious mistakes such as draughts, holes or access for rats etc... It is not a guarantee, but just gives you a bit more confidence and allows you to test things.
4. Probably most importantly, buy good quality stock. Don't be impatient. Find a successful breeder and buy from them.
5. Have a bit of a quarantine process, especially if you build up stock gradually and from different sources.
6. Have a good vitamin and mineral supplement, as well as a bit of preventative medication such as for air sac mite (I use Scatt, but I'm not sure it is available in Australia - I live in Singapore)

Best of luck and enjoy.