This mixture is fed in the morning and is take in preference to dry seed by all the aviary birds. Limited numbers of termites and mealworms are also fed and these are relished by both Cordons and Orange breast when they have young in the nest. Generally I only feed small quantities of live food then I observe the live food tray and apply my 10 second rule. If finches are eating live food within 10 seconds of my leaving the aviary, then I increase the frequency and amount of live food. Cordons are much better nest builders than Orange breasts.
Cordons construct the classical funnel nest using a mixture of fine grass and feathers.
They prefer pliable fine grasses which can readily be shaped into the ball shape. I also believe that they prefer white feathers in preference to ostrich feathers and usually have a white feather covering the entrance to the nest. Orange breasts build a more open nest and the chicks can often be observed in the nest as it is not as tightly constructed. They will also use fibre as well as feathers in lining their nest. A warning to the inquisitive, however do not try to interfere with the nest other than using a torch.