new finch breeder in WA

30 Jan 2011, 21:00

Hi Ray welcome to the forum,keep away from the blues if this is your first venture into finches.It could be a very costly venture if starting out,Even the more experienced breeders will loose a few.

30 Jan 2011, 22:17

I am worried about getting blues - problem is with what I've got, I can basically only stay breeding normal. Then again seeing that its breeding time, it might be a bit late to get them now as I might not even get any youngsters even if I do manage to keep them alive ! Thanks

30 Jan 2011, 23:31

Welcome to the forum from another of the West Aussies.

We are taking over by stealth.

Gouldians are beautiful, but safest to go slowly, and learn. You will learn lots on here.
LML

31 Jan 2011, 07:47

Maybe if you have some mutations you might just strike lucky and get a blue...its happened before, the guy in the local bird shop told me that someone bought two birds from them at different times and when the young hatched out brought a "sick looking" one in for the guys to check out...it was a blue.
When you do try the blues go for the split blue. You will pay less for them and any young will grow up already adapted to your situation, you may still have losses as they do seem to be on the delicate side, but at least you have done everything possible to help them adapt to your aviary situation.

01 Feb 2011, 22:21

g day and welcome , from another west aussie , just watch out for buzz he has west aussie itis.......pete

01 Feb 2011, 22:50

poitta wrote:g day and welcome , from another west aussie , just watch out for buzz he has west aussie itis.......pete

LOL

02 Feb 2011, 05:26

Hi & welcome. I'm new to gouldians as well. Have some normals which are breeding like rabbits and have recently picked up a few mutations and will see how they go. They are such a beautiful bird. Grant

04 Feb 2011, 21:24

Hi Ray, I am only new here as well, but have been breeding Gouldians for 45 years (on and off...but mostly on)..
I'm 55.
Take the advice of the others here.
Be very wary of Blues at the moment.
A very weak mutation.......heavily inbred I am led to believe.
I know many experienced people who have tried and had from moderate success to total abject failure.
I think I would steer clear of them for a while until plenty of outcrosses have taken place and the strain is stronger.
Just my opinion though....
Rob