The Finch

The Finch

Breed: Finches

Description: There are many different types of finches as they are one of the largest bird families around. All members of the finch family have a stout cone like beak with a sharp edge which is perfect for crushing seeds and eating insects. Colouring, size and song varies per Finch breed.
One of the most popular breeds of Finch for a pet is the Zebra Finch.. This lovely little bird has bright orange- red beak, brown bodies and the males have bright orange cheeks. As with most birds the males are brighter than the females.

Characteristics: For those looking for a wonderful easy to care for house pet, the Finch might be the perfect choice. Unlike many of the other pet bird breeds, Finches in generally are much less expensive, take much less work and are far hardier. They are not birds who one handles or takes out of their cage, but are enjoyed by watching them and listening to their delightful song. The Zebra Finch in particular makes a fantastic choice for the novice bird owner.
They are active little birds and very social and should always be housed in at least pairs. As a male and female will breed, those not wanting little finches should get two females.
Blessed with a cheerful nature and a lovely quiet voice that most can tolerate without difficulty, these enjoyable little birds are a real joy to own.

Origins: Finches are found throughout the world. The Zebra Finch comes from Australia where in the wild they live in the open grasslands.

Special needs: Despite their small size they need a fairly big cage, at least 18” square, though the bigger the better. They are very active and are always happiest when housed in at least pairs. They enjoy bathing so a bathtub of sorts should be included in the cage set up and if you plan to breed them they will of course need a nest box.

Highlights :
- Most Finches in captivity live to be around 5-8 years, some reaching 15 years. Finches in the wild live at least 5-10 years longer.
- Finches can be kept indoors or out during the warmer weather. They are extremely hardy. They should be protected from the rain and predators like outdoor cats and should always be assimilated to any new environment slowly.
- When purchasing a Finch, look for one that is sitting tall on his perk, with a bright active appearance and who is holding his feathers tight.
- Not all Finches will get along, a compatible pair will sit close to each other and gently preen each others feathers. If two Finches fight, pull out each others feathers or simply ignore each other, they are best separated and paired with a different bird. Birds of a different colour can happily live together.

-Their diet should consist of a small bird seed mixture and fresh greens like dandelion leaves or chickweed, they will also enjoy millet sprays. The Finch should also have a source of calcium- a cuttlefish bone, sea shells or even chicken egg shells.