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We do not ever choose to hand
raise finches, but circumstances
occasionally requires us to do so.
The result of all the hard work is
an amazing pet finch.

We have lost some if these
precious hand raised babies to a
bubbling in their crops. We have
discovered yogurt mixed in the
formula stops this condition. (only
use yogurt if you see this
condition.) Also, a small drop of
apple cider vinegar in the formula
once a day is helpful.

I also recommend the use of a
probotic to establish good gut
flora.

Each type of finch has a different
personality. The Cordon Bleus
love to cuddle. Nap time in its
"Mommy's" hand is a must.

Goulidans are tame, friendly and
inquisitive but prefer not to
cuddle.

This is Sprout, our first hand raised
finch. He still rules the house. He
has his own cage, preferring to only
visit other finches. He understands
words. "Wormy" sends him
immediately flying to the refrigerator
for his daily mealworm. Call his
name and he immediately comes
flying.

My mother and I have both hand
raised finches. She currently has
the tame ones. She seems more
devoted to these little ones.

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We use hand rearing formula,
available at most pet stores. The
first day, they must be fed every
hour and at least every 2 hours all
night. We have found a small (size
01) artist paint brush dipped into
the watery formula works great..
Use Pedilite in place of water the
first day.

Gouldians can take more than
the smaller Cordon Bleu or
Lavenders. For these smaller
ones, do not have excess liquid
on the brush for the first day. The
food should be around 105
degrees. Hotter can burn their
crops, so be careful.

With in a few days, switch to a
small syringe. ( 1ml syringes are
best)

Slowly extend the time between
feedings. After the first few days,
they should be able to go 2 hours
with one night time feeding.

By 7 days old, they can go all
night. Their crop should
completely empty once a day
(during the night). Feeding during
the day should still remain about 2
hours apart.

Their crops do not seem to really
form until 4 or 5 days old.

The temperature of the brooder
should be around 98 degrees.
Lower it to 95 degrees after the
first few days. When feathered
out, slowly lower temperature to
rooms temperatures.