![]() ![]() A lot of it depends upon the objectives of the keeper. Most all species can be either raised in aviaries or in individual cages. If we set our birds up in the middle of summer, the birds are miserable trying to set and raise babies when the temperature reach 100+ degrees. Warm climate breeders keep their bird outdoors, the cages and aviary tend to be a bit roomier and the breeding season is through the cooler months. What we provide for our birds depends in large part on what we have available. The bird thrives in both environments, which is a testament to their adaptability. I bring the bird to central Florida and place it in an outdoor aviary with natural sunlight and lots of natural live food. I buy a bird from a person in Chicago who raises all his birds in a basement bird room under artificial light and 14-inch square cages. It always amazes me the adaptability of the birds we keep. Housing is the first item we must consider. The needs of the bird have to be foremost and if you cannot meet those needs, resist the impulse to get it. If you cannot stand the thought of feeding baby mice, it might not be a good idea to bring home a Hornbill and try to keep it on fruit alone. Before you bring a new species home it is recommended you read up on them and make certain you will be able to meet the needs of the bird. A good reference library cannot be overlooked. Their bi-monthly bulletin, web site and email group are ready sources of information from the novice to the most experienced breeder. The National Finch and Softbill Society is one such society dedicated to the keeping and breeding of Finches and Softbills. I recommend that every aviculturist join a national society dedicated to the birds they are going to keep. Today they would hardly be considered even moderately difficult for even the novice who has a minimum of experience. If we look back 30 – 40 years at the Gouldian Finch (Chloebia gouldia), we find a species that was considered all but impossible to breed except by the most experienced aviculturist. I believe, given the right food, environment and mate any species can be bred in captivity. Both statements are true depending upon whom you talk to, the species you are talking about and the personal experience of the aviculturist. ![]() Finches are some of the hardest birds in captivity to breed. Finches are some of the easiest birds in captivity to breed.
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