FINCHforum

So my larger flight cage (37-1/4" x 27-1/2" x 49") arrived in the mail recently . I am preparing to assemble it, and my question is this: since I have three Gouldians now (2 males, one female) should I wait until I've gotten the second hen I plan to add to the flock (and quarantined her) until I put everybody in the new bigger cage? Or should I put the three of them in the new cage now and then add the hen in a while? I don't want the three of them to get all territorial when the new finch is introduced.

Also, if I buy a hen from the local bird store, it will probably be a little under a year older than the male fledgling. Should I wait till he grows up more to bring him a pal?

It's always best to put all the birds in a new cage at the same time, but we all acquire birds at different times. Gouldians are pretty easy-going, so you can bend the rules a bit more with them. I wouldn't be able to wait to set up and use a new flight cage! I'd go ahead, set it up, and add the birds. If and when you decide to get another hen, you can rearrange perches, etc., in the cage to make it look different, but I have added LGs without even doing that. I think you could add the other hen to the mix at any time, just don't give them nests.

I agree with Sally...just keep your eye on the new bird.
Paul.

what an imposition,having to sit and watch your birds to make sure the new one is starting to settle in. have to love adding new birds

I love adding new birds, it gives me a very good excuse to sit and stare at them for half the day. If ne one asks why im not doing something useful I say that I am cause if I didnt watch them and there was trouble my birds could be seriously injured. Its great! I just love watching thier interactions and the meet and greet process.

How are the finches in the new enclosure? did you add the female and get another gouldy?