general health of zebra finches and other finch species

[Mocknbird2]

I've never had finches but always thought I'd really enjoy them. Are the zebra finches hardier than the other species? What's the best species to start with.
Ever since I first saw gouldians I wanted some, but was told by others that the aren't for novice finch keepers. Are they really that hard to care for properly? Are they like salt water exotic fish as far as having very specific environmental and diet requirements?

[cindy]

In my opinion zebra, societies, shaftail, Orancheek waxbills, javas are some of the easiest to care for, easy to breed and hardy.

More sensitive would be gouldians, owls, certain species of waxbills like the cordon bleus, fire finches.

It depends, if you want to breed them or have them for enjoyment...for enjoyment in an aviary gouldians, owls, waxbills are very pleasing. Breeding them can be tricky.

[Mocknbird2]

In my opinion zebra, societies, shaftail, Orancheek waxbills, javas are some of the easiest to care for, easy to breed and hardy.

More sensitive would be gouldians, owls, certain species of waxbills like the cordon bleus, fire finches.

It depends, if you want to breed them or have them for enjoyment...for enjoyment in an aviary gouldians, owls, waxbills are very pleasing. Breeding them can be tricky.

I would only want them as pets. I never was a real breeder. But years ago, my lovebirds and cockatiels had different ideas. I really enjoyed the babies, but good homes are hard to find and there are so many unwanted smaller parrots already.

With finches, though, I guess it would almost be better to have those that don't breed readily as long as they're healthy.

I so love their little, "Beep, beep, beep" sounds. They are just adorable!

[Jeff McKee]

When I talked to my uncle a few years ago he recommended I start with Zebra finches. It was a great suggestion.

- one of the easiest to breed
- housing is economical
- price of the birds is the least of all the variations
- you can afford the 'best birds' and 'rarest genetics'
- relatively simple to care for
- relatively hardy bird
- lots of variations

I have really, really, really enjoyed the last point!

With some species, single birds can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Gouldians are also a pretty good choice. Birds are worth more money. Again, a bird with lots of variations.