Gouldian finches are small birds of Australian origin, very famous and beloved among lovers of exotic birds, due to their beautiful plumage full of different colors and a cheerful and lively personality.
Having a Gouldian diamond as a pet does not represent much complexity since they are sensitive but at the same time strong. However, as with all birds, they must be given due care and attention so that they grow and develop in an environment that is as pleasant and natural as possible, and that it is in the best conditions. Only in this way will you have a Gouldian diamond he althy, happy and sociable
If you already have a Gould diamond or are thinking of adopting one, continue reading this article on our site, where we will talk about Gould diamond care, and everything to consider when giving the beloved Australian bird a home.
The environment
Of these incredible animals there are three subspecies that are practically differentiated by the colors of their heads: black, red and orange. In the prairies of Australia, where they can be seen in complete freedom, they do not vary as much in color as the specimens that are in a state of captivity.
Gouldian diamonds come from Australian areas where the climate is warm and tropical, so they are used to high temperatures. In fact, they are very sensitive to temperate climates and excess humidity. They prefer to live where there is abundant vegetation and water. Before considering having a bird of this species, analyze the environment where you live, what type of home you can offer it and if it meets the conditions according to the needs that the bird presents for its survival.
An ideal temperature is 18 ºC at night and 21 ºC during the day, with humidity between 55 and 75 %. And although they can withstand temperatures below zero degrees, the most recommended is that in winter the temperature does not drop below 10 ºC. During the breeding season, Gouldian finches enjoy and appreciate light very much and love to be exposed to the sun between 10 to 14 hours.
Gould's Diamond Cage
Gouldian finches are highly social creatures and prefer to be in the company of another of their own species, so it's best if From the outset you consider having a pair of Gould's at home.
Remember that, although they will be friendly to you and other humans, you will not be able to completely tame them and they will always need the presence of another of their own species to meet their social needs. With a pair of females, for example, it will be enough. You can also make pairs with other species of finches, such as the Mandarin finch, but we must be careful: coexistence between Gouldian finches and canaries can be very negative for the latter.
Buy a aviary as big as possible so that your birds have enough space to fly and exercise (at least one meter for each bird). Ideally, this should be more horizontal than vertical in shape since your birds fly horizontally.
Place some nesting boxes in the aviary, fill them with soft hay or cotton. Set up several jumpers made of natural softwood so they have areas of different heights to land on when they play fly. Also, the natural sticks help wear down your nails naturally. Includes feeders and drinkers but they should not be near or below the wooden jumpers; you don't want these to be filled with droppings.
Remember that the hygiene of the aviary and its accessories is key so that your bird does not contract infections that endanger its he alth.
Feeding
Access to fresh, refreshed water is essential for Gould diamondbacks. Also, they love to bathe. We recommend that you place a shallow dish with water a few times a week so that your bird can take its well-deserved baths whenever it feels like it.
In the wild, these birds are accustomed to eating various types of grasses along with seeds. In captivity they may eat commercial mixes designed for exotic birds that typically contain millet, panizo, and canaryseed.
You can supplement their diet with fruits, fresh vegetables, egg shells and a special diet for insectivores. When you want to give him a gift you can invite him some delicious live worms, which he loves.
Details to be considered…
What most stands out in the care of the Gould diamond is the physical treatment. Although they are not overly sensitive, high-care birds, they are also not as robust as other breeds of finches, and tend to get nervous if you try to pick them up without reason. Don't try to hold a Gould diamond unless it's an emergency, as this can be a very stressful situation for them.
Don't forget that if you decide to adopt a couple made up of a male and a female they can start breeding. You must be responsible and understand beforehand that this can happen. If you don't want to start gouldian finch breeding due to lack of space or because you don't want to care for a large group of birds, opt for same-sex pairs instead.
