Finch

A finch is a good companion for:

Children under 5

Seniors

Apartments/Condos

Children ages 5–11

Busy People

Rural Homes

Life Span

The average life span for a finch is four to seven years.

Typical Behavior

A finch makes a wonderful companion for busy people as it does not require a great deal of human attention. In fact, trying to handle a finch can cause it to become extremely stressed. Within their own flock, however, finches are very social creatures and it is recommended that they be kept in pairs. It is important to ensure that any two finches living in the same cage are compatible. Often, an older, weaker finch may be injured or even killed if it shares a cage with younger ones. While finches chirp and sing pleasantly, some species have higher singing tones and may be considered more enjoyable.

Care Requirements

Since finches are most safe and content when secure inside their cage, they require a cage with room enough to fly. Finches, like many other birds, are sensitive to fumes. Many common household fumes can cause harm or kill them, including second hand smoke, Febreze products, insecticides, fumes from oven-cleaning products or a self-cleaning oven. Using Teflon pans can release toxins that are harmful to birds. Keep in mind that a consistently pesky cat or continuously barking dog can greatly stress, and even kill, a finch.

Proper Habitat and Habitat Maintenance Requirements

The larger the cage you can provide a finch, the happier it will be. It is important to buy a cage where the bars are close enough together that the bird cannot get its head stuck. Unlike other birds, finches do not climb on the inside bars of their cage. Their sole exercise comes from flying around inside the cage. Finches are not especially interested in toys but they do appreciate a nice swing. Finches need non-toxic hardwood perches inside the cage rather than dowel-type perches. A cuttlebone inside the cage will be used by a finch to keep its beak conditioned.

In order to keep a finch healthy, full-spectrum sunlight is required. Keeping their cage near a window that can be opened or taking them outside when the weather permits will provide the light they need. When outside, the cage should be kept out of direct sunlight, especially on hot days. A birdcage light can be purchased in a pet supply store if natural sunlight is not available or sufficient. A finch cage should be cleaned at least twice a week. To make it easier to clean a cage, the bottom can be lined with paper towels, butcher paper or newsprint paper. However, do not use your local newspaper to line the cage because printed ink can be harmful to a bird. Perches should be cleaned once a week.

Dietary Requirements

All pet supply stores sell commercial birdseed products and a variety of treats specifically for finches. You should offer your finch fresh greens and vegetables in moderation. If these are not eaten within a couple hours, remove them from the cage. Never offer an avocado to a finch, as it can be deadly to birds. Because the additives in tap water may be harmful to your finch, you should provide ready access to fresh bottled water. Regularly clean the water bottle to keep bacteria from forming.

Financial Considerations for a Finch:

Veterinary

Birds do not normally require annual veterinary visits; however, it is important to keep a close eye on your finch because signs of illness can be very subtle. Be sure to choose a veterinarian that specializes in birds. Specialized veterinarians sometimes charge higher rates.

Grooming

Most finches love to take a bath but do not require a professional grooming service. There are special bathtubs that can be purchased for your finch. Once your bird has had its bath, do not leave the bathtub in the cage for more than half an hour. Periodically, a finch will need its nails trimmed. If you have never done this, or feel uncomfortable doing this, take the bird in its cage to a veterinarian that specializes in caring for birds.

Animal Sitter

A professional pet sitter, a friend or neighbor can care for your finch in your absence.

Food

The cost to feed your finch will vary, however it is recommended that you purchase a high quality seed that can cost $5 to $7 per bag.

Other Supplies:

Generally a finch will require a cage and cage stand, a cage cover, non-toxic hardwood perches, a cuttlebone, a bathtub, food and a food dish, treats and a water bottle.

Interesting Facts about Finches:

• There are a large variety of domesticated finches, but the two most popular are the Zebra and Society finches.
• One way to determine whether a finch is a male or female is that the male will frequently sing and do a hopping dance intended to impress the female.
• Society finches live up to the name, as they are effective foster parents for all sorts of baby finches.
• The name Zebra finch comes from the characteristic black-and-white striped markings on the upper area of the bird's tail.
• Finches prefer to live in warm, dry climates.