CHOOSING A CANARY
General information
The canary (Serinus canaria) is the second most popular pet bird. They are
known for their good nature, attractive plumage and remarkable singing ability.
Canaries originate from the Canary Islands, Madeira and the Azores. They were
introduced to Europe by the Portuguese in the fifteenth century. There are numerous
varieties bred in captivity. Some of these birds are bred for their song while
others are bred for their conformation, plumage and color.
The canary is relatively easy to care for. It is an appropriate pet for children
to learn to care for responsibly. They are also often found as companions in
retirement homes and hospitals.
Purchasing a Canary
Canaries may be purchased from a pet shop or, better, a reputable breeder.
When selecting a Canary, try to choose a young bird as it may be easier to tame.
The female canary does not sing as well as the male. Many people are surprised
to find the bird they thought was a male, turns out to be a female with less
or often no song. If you want a Canary specifically for its singing ability,
make sure you have actually heard it sing. Keep in mind that a canary who is
under stress, molting, in ill health or simply in a new environment, may not
sing. Hand raised babies often make better pets since they have been completely
socialized with humans. Young birds are easier to tame and adapt readily to
new environments and situations. Your new bird should be exposed early to different
events (young and old people, males and females, other pets, car trips, visits
to the veterinary surgeon, etc.) to help promote a calm, well adjusted pet.
The lively, alert bird that is not easily frightened is more likely a healthy
bird. After purchasing your new bird, have it examined by your vet.
Veterinary care
Canaries require regular, routine veterinary health checkups. Your vet can
perform a physical examination, grooming (beak, nail or feather trim ) and laboratory
tests as needed. During these annual checkups., health, nutritional and maintenance
issues can be identified and addressed. Veterinary checkups. help prevent disease
and will aid in the maintenance of a long lasting, healthy relationship between
you and your bird.
Color
Mature
- the native, wild canary is greenish-yellow
- there are over 50 color. types and combinations
- common domestic colors include yellow, orange, "red factor",
olive, white, brown and black
Immature
- same colors
- often said to have a plumper "baby" face and less scale on the
feet
Sexing
Mature
- both sexes look the same from a distance
- males have a more prominent "nipple" like protrusion of the vent
("anus") evident more during breeding
- females have a vent that lays flat against the body
- males tend to be better singers
Immature
Weight - average 0.7 - 0.8 ounces (20 - 22 grams)
Size - average 5 - 5.5 inches (12.5 - 14 cm) in length
Life span - 6 - 10 years (maximum 20 years)
Diet - consult your vet or see the information page here
Breeding - breed readily in captivity
Brood size - 3 - 6 creamy white eggs will hatch in about 14 days, babies
leave the nest in 2 - 3 weeks
Cage - minimum 1 ft x 1 ft x 2 ft (30 cm x 30 cm x 60 cm)
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