Gouldian Finch

Gouldian Finch Care Guide

Gouldian finches (Erythrura Gouldie), also known as Lady Gouldian or Rainbow finches, are among the most colorful small birds in the world. Native to Australia, these delicate birds require specific care to thrive in captivity.Their stunning plumage comes in three natural color variations (black, red, and yellow-headed) and they are known for their peaceful nature and soft chirping sounds.

ESSENTIAL FACTS

Feature Details
Scientific Name Erythrura gouldiae
Size/Weight 5-5.5 inches | 14-16 grams
Lifespan 6-8 years (up to 10 in optimal conditions)
Origin Northern Australia (endangered in wild)

IDENTIFICATION

Feature Details
Head Colors Black (75%), red (25%), yellow (rare)
Body Colors Purple chest, yellow belly, green back
Gender Differences Males: Brighter colors, purple chest; Females: Duller colors
Juveniles Gray heads, greenish bodies (color develops at 3-6 months)

DIET

Component Details
Base Diet High-quality finch seed mix (1 tsp/bird/day)
Live Food Small mealworms or fruit flies (breeding season)
Greens Chopped kale, spinach, chickweed (3x/week)
Supplements Cuttlebone, mineral grit, iodine block

HOUSING

Feature Details
Cage Size Minimum 30″L × 18″W × 18″H (pair)
Aviary Ideal for groups (protected from drafts)
Temperature 70-80°F (no sudden changes)
Nesting Wicker baskets with coconut fiber

BEHAVIOR

Trait Details
Social Peaceful, keep in pairs/small groups
Vocalization Soft chirps and beeps (not loud)
Breeding Seasonal breeders (spring/summer)
Activity Most active mornings/evenings
Gouldian finch Crae guide and products

Gouldian Finch Care Schedule

DAILY CARE

Task Details Best Time
Food Refresh
  • High-quality finch seed (1 tsp/bird)
  • Remove/refresh greens (if provided)
  • Check seed for empty hulls
 Morning (7-9 AM)
Water Change
  • Clean all water containers
  • Use lukewarm water
  • Add vitamins (if prescribed)
 AM & PM
Health Check
  • Observe activity levels
  • Check droppings (color/consistency)
  • Look for fluffed feathers
 Evening (5-7 PM)
Bathing
  • Offer shallow bath (1″ deep)
  • Room temperature water
  • Remove after 1 hour
 Late morning

WEEKLY CARE

Task Details Recommended Day
Full Cage Clean
  • Remove all birds temporarily
  • Wash perches with vinegar solution
  • Replace cage liner/substrate
 Sunday
Supplement Boost
  • Offer egg food (breeding season)
  • Provide sprouted seeds
  • Add calcium supplement
 Wednesday
Toy Rotation
  • Introduce 1-2 new toys
  • Remove damaged items
  • Rearrange perches
 Friday

MONTHLY CARE

Task Details When
Deep Disinfection
  • Complete cage breakdown
  • Disinfect with bird-safe cleaner
  • Sun-dry all components
 1st of month
Health Records
  • Record weights (if possible)
  • Note molting patterns
  • Update breeding logs
 Monthly checkup
Preventative Care
  • Check for mites/lice
  • Trim nails if needed
  • Inspect beak condition
 Last weekend

SEASONAL CARE

Season Special Considerations
Spring
  • Prepare nesting materials
  • Increase protein in diet
  • Monitor breeding pairs
Summer
  • Ensure proper ventilation
  • Offer daily baths
  • Watch for overheating
Fall
  • Support molting with extra protein
  • Reduce daylight hours
  • Prepare for temperature drops
Winter
  • Maintain stable temperatures
  • Increase fat content slightly
  • Prevent drafts

Gouldian Finch Pro Tips

Temperature Control: Use ceramic heat emitters (not heat lamps) to maintain 70-80°F.

Stress Reduction: Cover three sides of cage during molting or illness.

Color Enhancement: Offer foods rich in carotenoids (red peppers, carrots) for vibrant plumage.

Emergency Prep: Keep avian vet contact and critical care formula on hand.