Can you tell me about Finches?

[rodriguezpoultry]

I'm going back and forth on myself. I love birds, that's it.

I've had parakeets, canaries...but I'm thinking about finches.

I do not want the zebra finches, those are too simple. I'm after the more distinct colors, otherwise I know I will lose interest. I love the antics of all finch species and enjoy hearing them.

I'm wondering if anyone knows:
If they are loud, like a parakeet or canary?
Would do well in a cage similar to those they are sold in? Possibly a 2ft. cage? If not, what size "should" the cage be?

I realize I would need to get a pair, I'd be looking for a male and female and would probably purchase from a breeder as the rarer species are not going to be sold in stores readily.

Any ideas that would do well with my requests?
Fairly quiet, active, somewhat easy to breed?

I've found one species I believe I'm fairly interested in, but would like input! Thanks!

Edit: "Lose interest" is a poor choice of wording..I want something that allures me, not just any type of finch.

I'm really liking the Lady Gouldian finch or Strawberry finch, but I'd like the colors to remain vibrant, not just during breeding season.

I also very much like the Cordon Bleu finch...

 

[georgiagail]

Lady Gouldian finches have vibrant color year round. They are also quiet finches.

Gail

 

[dwhite]

another one to look at is the orange cheek waxbill, very entertaining and nice, and inexpensive.

 

[Imp]

I had zebras for a few years. Raised a few.

I found them to be quiet, but non stop squeaking. Eventually I got tired of the squeaking.
I kept them in the smaller bird cages, so I think 2ft would be OK. They need enough room to fly a bit, like a canary.

The Gouldians, Cordon Bleus, and Strawberries are readily available here at the chain pet stores. PetSmart & Petco.

Imp

 

[AquaEyes]

I know you mentioned not wanting zebra finches, but are you familiar with all the different colors and combinations there are? Check out this site to see the variety out there. And you'll have the benefit of having a species that is really easy to care for.

Also, have you considered canaries? They come in more than just yellow, and they're also easier to care for than some of the other species.

 

[rodriguezpoultry]

I actually had a canary. It was far louder (even though it was supposed to be a female) than the male. It was a gorgeous red-factor. "She" sang day or night, was extremely flighty and was just not what I was after.

My husband was driven insane by what he called "endless nails on a chalkboard."