thinking about gettinig red crested finches

[EmeraldToucan]

So, I've read a little bit about these guys, but had never found anyone in my area that actually had them. Recently I went to a bird show, and a breeder had some for sale, for pretty inexpensive compared to what I've heard they usually go for too. But at the time I just didn't have the money on me.
Any how, I know they are technically softbills, and I believe in the same family as tanagers and South American honeycreepers, but I don't know a whole ton about them. I do have softbill experience (I have two toucans) and I'm very tempted to save up a little and get a pair of these guys.

So anyone have experience with these birds?
Any advice on them?

[Sally]

Someone offered me a pair of them several years ago. At the time, I didn't feel I had the experience to work with them, so turned them down. Now I am kicking myself, though it was the right decision then. It is hard to find out much about them, there is a bit of information here: http://www.birdcare.com.au/red_crested_finch.htm

[EmeraldToucan]

I'm glad to hear they can be kept with other finches. The breeder that had them available kept them with other finches too, and thought he was just lucky to get away with it, I had heard they tended to be aggressive. I imagine if they are breeding it's best to separate them from other birds? Or do they tend to get along all right even then?

Thanks for the info, there's not a whole lot out there about these guys.


I heard in the wild they mainly eat insects and fruit, I get the impression it's common to keep them on a diet mainly comprised of seeds in captivity, but I wouldn't think that would be ideal. I have toucans all ready, and they eat some insects, and spiders too, so I have no problem with the creepy crawlies.

[JohnBoy]

I had these birds in the 70's. They sold for $10 ea. direct from quarantine stations. Those were the days when just about everything was available and at affordable prices.
Anyway I never had problems with them. They never did breed for me even though they were in a very large outdoor aviary. They were charming birds and peaceful and I do remember liking them lots. They are on my next to get list, but first I need to recoup from the $$$$$ I spent at the bird fair on Saturday.