From a breeders point of view, Gouldian finches are notorious for being fragile. It
has been often stated that they are susceptible to many types of health problems.  
If they become sedentary, the lack of exercise can cause overweight birds and
other health problems. Hens fall dead from the perch for no apparent reason.  

This section will explain some of the health issues involved in keeping Goulds and
other finch varieties, what to look for, and how to treat your birds if you suspect
they are ill.
Most of us will never see many of the diseases on this list, however, if your birds are housed
outside or you take them out for fresh air, wild birds that may visit them can leave a nasty calling
card!
The brief version of my experience with the Dracula of the Bird World!
  • Aspergilliosis
  • Candida (Thrush or Yeast)
  • Avian Gastric Yeast (AGY)
  • Ringworm
  • Fungus growth on Beak & Scales
Below is a list of some of the illnesses, diseases, and problems your bird may
encounter.  Keep in mind this is not a complete list, but merely those we are most
likely to see - if we see them at all.  Click the link for more information on each type
of issue.
ARTICLES OF INTEREST & HANDY LINKS
  • Abnormal Molt
  • Balding
  • Damaged Feathers
  • Feather Plucking
  • Blood Mites
  • Feather Mites
  • Scaly Face/Leg Mites
  • Burrowing Mites
  • Air Sac Mites
  • Protozoan Infections
  • Worms
  • Coccidia
  • Egg Binding
  • Soft Shelled-Eggs
  • Clear Eggs
  • Calcium Deficiency
  • Egg Pecking/Eating
  • Ornithosis/Psittacosis (caused by Chlamydia)
  • Streptococcus/Staphylococcus
  • E-Coli
  • Salmonella
  • Why it Happens
  • Changing the Nutrition
  • When to Trim Beak & Claws
  • How to Trim Beak & Claws
If you just can't figure out what is wrong and you have tried everything, check out your
bird's feet.  Their feet can tell a lot about their overall health, depending on the color and
texture.

See the About Your Bird's Feet link for more information.
  •  Good poops vs bad poops
POOPOLOGY 101
  •  Polyomavirus
  •  Ornithosis/Psittacosis
  •  Newcastle Disease
  •  Herpesvirus (One-eyed Cold)

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Information on nearly
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can imagine!
Association of Avian
Veterinarians

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regarding all pets.
Australian Museum
Online:

Fact Sheet about the
Gouldian Finch from
folks who live with them
in their natural habitat!
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Keep a small cage, heat
source, thermometer, and
Pedialyte on hand in case
of illness in your birds.  
Your quick actions in
getting the bird warm and
hydrated could save it's
life!
List of common symptoms, their probable cause (disease process) and the medications
typically used to treat them.  
Please read the disclaimer carefully! THIS PAGE STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION!
LadyGouldian.com

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YOUR LINKS!

In my opinion, the best
site  to find information,
health tips, supplies,
and support for Gouldian
care.

Everything you need to
successfully raise your
Finch is here.
USING A MICROSCOPE