Careful though had to be put into what breeds would be suitable for an elementary school. Any birds that were placed in the lab had to be easy to care for and quiet. After discussing the situation with different pet stores, it became evident that canaries, finches, and lady gouliads all met these requirements. The male canary cings beautifully (but very softly), which the students would enjoy. The finches are excellent breeders, and could lay and hatch eggs if provided with nests. Children would be able to see the life cycle right in front of them. The lay gouliad birds are by far the most colorful and pleasing to watch. It was decided that there was enough room in the lab for three cages. Each cage would hold ten birds. Each cage would hold a different breed, since the breeds should be ket seperate to avoid incompatibility.

Many pet stores did not offer a wide selection of these breeds of birds. The lady gouliads were particularly hard to find. Buying directly from a breeder instead of through a pet store solved a few problems. Along with being significantly cheaper, there was a much wider selection of birds. After talking to abreeder, he allowed us to see all of his birds, and pick out exactly which ones would be ideal for the science lab.

The next challenge was finding cages that were safe enough for the school. many cages that were large enough were designed to hold one large bird rather than ten small ones. these cages had rather wide openings between the wires where small birds could possibly escape. Sharp corners were also present on many cages, which just wouldn't do in an elementary school. The Sierra flight cage seemed perfect. It is three feet by three ffeet by three feet, which is ample room. The wires are close enough to prevent the smallest birds from escape. The cages come on three foot high hardwood stands to keep the birds out of drafty areas. These stands are also ideal to elevate the cages to the perfect viewing for children.

Another trip to the pet store was required to purchase bird food. The seed was ordered in bulk to keep down the cost. Food and water dishes which are attached on the outside of the cages were purchased. These dishes can be cleaned and refilled wiothout having to open up the cages. This is ideal if the teachers decide to have students become active caretakers of the birds.