CHOOSING A FINCH

General information

The finch is a popular pet bird with a fascinating personality and colorful community life. They originate from around the world. There is a large diversity of species and varieties available in an abundant assortment of colors and patterns. Although ordinarily quiet, they do have a cheerful, harmonious song. This is especially true of the male around the time of courtship and breeding. These petite birds are robust, easy to care for and demand little attention. They are often housed collectively in large attractive aviaries. Some finches have a strong territorial nature and social pecking order that may lead to aggression between individuals. Finches are flighty, timid animals and prefer the company of other finches. Because of this, an interactive bond is not likely to develop between you and your pet; however, young birds may be finger trained.

Some common species kept as pets include the Zebra finch, Society or Bengalese finch, Java finch and Gouldian finch.

Purchasing a Finch

Finches may be purchased from a pet shop or, better, a reputable breeder. When selecting a finch, try to choose a young bird. The lively, alert bird is more likely a healthy bird. Hand raised babies are not commonly available but may make better pets since they have some socialization with humans. After purchasing your new bird, have it examined by your veterinary surgeon.

Veterinary care

Finches 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 semiannual 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 - hundreds of varieties, colors and shades

Sexing - in many species, the sexes look similar - consult a finch guide book for specific differences

Weight - average 0.3 - 1.3 ounces (10 - 35 grams)

Size - average 3 - 6 inches (7.5 - 15 cm) in length

Life span - 4 - 6 years (maximum 17 years)

Diet - consult your vet or see the information page here

Breeding - sexual maturity 2 - 3 months old

Brood size - 3 - 7 eggs will hatch in 12 - 14 days, young leave the nest in 2-3 weeks

- egg color varies between species but they are often white or cream colored

Cages - minimum 1 ft x 1 ft x 2 ft (30 cm x 30 cm x 60 cm), they do better in large cages with plenty of room for flight

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