There are a few choices,Cage,Indoor Avairy or Outdoor Avairy with Heated indoor Avairy.My view is that the Cage if used should be the largest you can get to allow the Gouldian to fly from perch to perch and not hopping .I have a indoor avairy (see picture).I have bred last year 7 chicks(lost1 in a accident) and it gives roomto fly.It is not ideal as it could be wider.Now starting to plan a outdoor Avairy but cost restrict what I can do.I use bird sand on the floor as this is mixed with Minerals and Oyster shell.
The avairy is cleaned weekly and monthly the Finches are removed and the avairy is completely cleaned as I can't get to everything(only got large front door):The monthly clean is left during breeding.
I feed store bought Foreign Finch mix seed.Make sure it is clean and fresh.To test try sprouting old seed will take longer than the normal (2 days):
I also supply Mineral and Oyster git mix with granulated Charcoal mixed in with it.This is taken as needed by the FinchesThe Charcoal is taken with relish by my birds.
Millet sprays are added as a treat and are soon destroyed.
Egg shells are also given extra(calcium source).There is a difference as how to prepare these :
1. Microwave at full power for approx.3-5 minutes.
2 Boil for 5-10 minutes.
I use the microwave but also place water in so that boils the eggs as well.I also give my shells in halves and not crushed.It good fun watching the Finches have a go at the egg shells.
Egg food is also given the whole year.I use store bought as my time is limited.
Water is always given fresh daily.
Bath water is also supplied daily.
Everything I use is cleaned before use.
I give no green food as it is not touched but they do eat the Spider planets that I rotate .
I have now added cucumber and Insect food.
I am now trying out a new product the Herb Salad.Will post results when I have fully tested it.I have now had the Herb Salad in for a week and my birds only take small amounts will keep you posted as we go along