Hello! And Gouldian finch health ?s

[The Orchid Boy]

Hello everyone! First post, I'll tell you a bit about myself. I live in the Midwest plains of the United States. I live out in the country with my family and ponies, horses, dogs, cats, chickens, ducks, geese, guineas, fish, and Quaker parrot. Birds are my favorite animals, especially parrots. My first word that I ever said was 'bird'. I also love orchids and exotic plants, but exotic plants belong in pots. I only plant native stuff in my flower beds. I like gardening and outdoor activities.

I'd like to get into Gouldian finch breeding. I swear I've read almost every internet article on them, read a whole book on them so I'm becoming familiar with them. 1) Any reccomend actions for a first timer? I don't want to do big time breeding, just 2 pairs. Get 2 pairs to start or just start with one? 2) Any good sellers that'll ship or are close-ish to Nebraska? 3) And the biggest thing that has kind of scared me is all theses health issues talked about with Gouldians. I've never had any health issue with my Quaker parrot. What vitamins/treatments should I always have on hand for Gouldians? 4) And what about keeping track of genetics for selling the babies??? How do I know what the genetic code is for parents to start with?

Thanks!!!!

[Airlyn]

Hi, I am new to finches as well and will let others more knowledgeable answer your questions. I just wanted to say hi and welcome to the forum:)
I am in the mid west as well. I am down in Missouri.
I look forward to seeing you around in the forum.
Have a great day,
Air~

[Sally]

Welcome to the forum! I'm not a Gouldian expert, but I can say that you shouldn't be afraid of Gouldians. It may seem from reading posts on here that they have a lot of problems, but remember that people tend to post a lot when they are having trouble with their flock. It can give a skewed impression that they are more difficult than they really are. There's lots of good reading at www.finchinfo.com, where you will find many articles on finch care and especially the Gouldian finch. If you put your general location in your profile, it makes it easier to answer locale-specific questions later on.