Finches
Hundreds of species make up the general category of small (2 to 4 inches long) passerines called finches. The avian order Passeriformes contains four families, although most of the finches seen in homes and aviaries in the United States come from one of two of those: the Fringillidae family (“true” finches) and the Estrildidae (Estrildid finches). In these families you’ll find the popular zebra, society and Gouldian finches as well as the popular green singing finch and cordon bleus. Although there are some hand-tamed finches, most of these birds remain inside their cage or aviary at all times. Provide an extra-large horizontal cage or aviary (ideally 4-feet wide) so your finch can comfortably fly back and forth, and you’ll be rewarded with a musical, charming companion.
Life Expectancy: 7 years
ABOUT
Basic Care Plan for Finches
Provide a varied diet for your society finch that consists of seed, greens, cuttlebone and egg food. Yellow, white and panicum millets along with canary seed make up the base bird diet for these finches. You can also provide spray and Japanese millet along with fresh greens such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Society finches enjoy bathing frequently, so keep a shallow dish for bathing water as well as clean drinking water. Replace with fresh water and keep your birds' dishes clean. Society finches often require additional food during a molt.
