Although, seed is the principal item in any finches diet, even a good mixture of seeds in not completely sufficient to insure a balanced diet. Nutrient needs change throughout the life of the gouldian finch and according to the various stages in its life cycle. Other more detailed resources should be consulted to adequately cover this topic. Gouldian finches also need a diet supplemented with greens, such as spouting seeds, chickweed, watercress, and fresh spinach or lettuce. These plants can provide the much need vitamin E essential to the gouldian's health.
Obesity can lead to sterilization of males.
Calcium is important to the gouldian's health. Generally, a cuttlebone , available at many pet stores, is the easiest method for assuring that this mineral is available. Crushed egg shells can also satisfy the need for calcium. Egg shells need to be sterilized to kill traces of salmonela. Grit is another important element to the gouldian diet.