FINCHforum

I live in houston texas and my home has a 10' x 20' atrium which in the center of my home, but open to the sky with a screen roof. It has a stone patio, 500 gal pond of tropical fish, a waterfall, and planted areas (tropicals, orchids, bromeliads, etc.) also.

Wondering if this would be suitable for finches -- I see them in outside aviaries around here, however, I don't know whether they are kept out all winter (we don't usually get much of winter, but do get a few freezes every year unpredictable) and of course our summers are hot and humid.

I'd appreciate any insight anyone can offer on finches outdoors and varieties which would be better - I had finches as a child but that was many years ago.

Thank you.

Chantal

Your atrium sounds wonderful. I know of a few people who have added finches to similar spaces in their homes. I would say most species of finches would do fine in your atrium weather wise. My main concerns would be the screened roof and the pond. Generally outdoor aviaries have a solid roof to protect the birds from; the heat of the sun, contact with native birds and more importantly, predatory birds. The pond could be a hazard as the birds will be attracted to the water, then may fall in and drown. Also keep in mind that birds are very messy... they poop alot! Feathers and seed hulls have to be removed daily. If you use this area for entertaining you could be in for more work than you anticipate. Perhaps it would be better to enclose an area in the atrium which could be constructed with bird keeping in mind??

As for species.... I would suggest you start out with inexpensive zebras or societies and see how they do. Then if everything works out you could invest in the more expensive species if you wish.

I am SO incredibly jealous! What a great sounding space!

Hilary