Finches are a small bird between 3” and 8” in length with an average life span of 4 to more than 8 years. They are fairly quiet and very active birds that do not enjoy human contact so they are not the type to own if you want a bird that sits on your finger, for this you need a parrot. They are beautifully colored birds that are enjoyable to watch as they play in their cages or sing to you.
Finches should be housed in pairs or more of the same or compatible species of finch, do not house with parrots. The most common species available are the Zebra finch, Society finch, Lady Gouldian and Spice finch. Zebra finches are the easiest to find and come in a variety of color mutations and are fairly hardy and easy to keep and breed.
There are hundreds of species and varieties of finches, some more colorful than others. Some of the more colorful species include the Lady Gouldian finch, Red-Headed Parrot finch and strawberry finch.
Zebra finches are my favorite finches to raise because they take up little room and the cost is less per bird. I can match mates to try and get the different color variations and the young are easy to sell.
Do you have a favorite bird? If so let me know and we can discuss it here.
By: Gene L.