FINCHforum

From your own experiences, what have been the hardiest to least hardy species of finches that you have kept? Which are more prone to health problems, short lifespans, and what problems have been the most common with that species?

Anne, that's a hard question to answer because there are so many variables that can affect the health of a bird.

However, in general, I believe I would rank the birds I've had (from most to least hardy as follows):

Doves
Canaries
Societies & Zebras
Parrot Finches
Gouldians and Waxbills
Rarer Species

Please note that this is just my opinion -- others may have differing opinions.

Well for me I had a difficult time with gouldians for quite a while.
Now I am finding everythng to be MUCH better.

I think the hardiest ones in my aviary are society finches. I have never lost one due to health problems.

What problems were you experiencing with your Gouldians? I have a couple of pairs that I hope will be ready to try and mate later this year. I am working to learn much before then, to try and avoid any more problems than I can avoid.