COMMONLY AVAILABLE and naturally social, finches come in a variety of sizes, colors and types and make ideal pets for first time bird owners. Remind new finch owners that a number of care concerns should be addressed before they walk out the door with their new-feathered friend.
The most commonly available finches, as well as best for beginners, are zebra and society finches. Both species are moderately priced and easy to care for-great selling points for any potential bird owner. Mainly seedeaters, both species are hardy for indoors and out (in, good weather) and tend to acclimate to their new homes quickly.
A variety of other finches are available, some are brightly colored and others sing beautifully. With these fancier exotic types, care must be taken to know what additional care may be required for each variety. For example, the rainbow-colored Lady Gouldian mainly eats seeds. It is best to purchase them when in full-color since many youngsters, still in their immature green plumage, are very delicate and sometimes do not acclimate to changes well. However, birds in adult plumage generally are hardier.
Other exotic finches include: cordons, gold-breasted, strawberry, fire, orange cheek, star, tricolor nuns, white hooded nuns, black head nun, read ear, cut throat, parson's, shafttail, spice, lavender, owl, silverbill, bronze wing, cherry headed, European goldfinch, weavers, blue headed parrot finch and red headed parrot finch. Many of these species need more than a commercial seed diet, including mealworms and other small insects. Therefore, these species are best left for more experienced bird owners.
When customers are considering finches for song, keep in mind that only the male birds' sing. By nature, the male birds sing to attract females during breeding season, which varies according to location.
Communal Living
Some of the best singing finches are the European gold, green singer and grey singer finches. Remember: Many of the other finches mentioned above will sing, but in a lower tone. The singers" have a song similar to the canary, which is loud and can carry throughout a home.
Since finches are sociable by nature, they should be sold as pairs, though not necessarily a male and a female pair. Finches kept as household pets tend to do better with a cage companion and benefit from companionship with their own kind. Mixing too many single, different varieties of finches in a cage may lead to conflict between birds, especially during breeding season-this can be very stressful for them.
Housing too many finches in close quarters also can encourage feather picking; signs of feather picking are bald spots on the bird's head and neck. This behavior usually can be corrected by separating the bird into it's own cage until all its feathers grow back; then the bird can be returned into the community cage. Be forewarned: If too many birds in a cage were the source of the problem, the feather picking may recur.
When selecting finches, encourage customers to keep to birds of the same size, not mixing larger finches with small finches. Small finches can be intimidated by larger finches in a confined cage, and this can cause stress to some birds. Instead, direct customers to choose companion birds of the same size for a single cage.
Many of the commonly available finches adapt well to regular birdcages. A large cage with plenty of room for some flight is best for most species. Since finches fly horizontally, the cage's width is more important than its height.
The best cages measure 2 feet long or larger. Bar spacing should be no wider than about % inch to prevent the birds from pushing their heads through. A small cage will do for a single pair of finches while a large flight cage can house a few pairs.
Encourage customers to purchase a cage and accessories before bringing the birds home. This also reduces stress on the birds. When introducing multiple birds to a new cage, introduce all the birds at once to prevent territorial conflict. When adding new birds to an established group, add two or more at one time. If a single bird is added to a cage containing an established population, the birds could chase and attack the newly added single bird.
If quarreling occurs, owners can remove all birds and put them in a holding cage, while the regular cage is rearranged. Once the inside of the cage appears different, all the birds can be placed back into the cage. Sometimes, just changing things around will confuse the other finches enough to ignore the new additions. This method also can work for store displays.
All the Works
All birds need the standard accessories: perches, toys and food and water containers. Plastic or ceramic feeder and water bowls designed to allow birds to perch on or near them do well for finches. Water bottles or tubes also work, but it is best to offer them a bowl of water for bathing as well.
To reduce competition for food, provide additional food and water dishes. Finches generally eat a commercial seed diet, though some need live foods to maintain proper health. When feeding the birds live food, such as mealworms; be sure to place two or more dishes of the live food inside the cage at the same time. Some finches also enjoy eating leafy greens, which must be washed thoroughly before offered. Along with commercial seeds, a variety of specialty foods for finches are available, such as flavored seed treats, finch treat sticks, dried fruits and vegetables. Encourage bird owners to offer cuttlebone, calcium blocks and special food treats to their birds for greater health and enjoyment.
Natural types of branches are best for finches, but properly sized wooden dowels can be used. Perches that range in diameter from 3/8 to ½ inch work well for most of the smaller species. These should be spaced at each end of the cage, allowing enough room for the birds to turn around without hitting their tails.
Do not set perches over food or water containers. Also, be sure there are enough high placed perches for all the birds to roost. Owners should be aware that periodic cage cleaning is essential to maintain healthy birds. Frequency will depend on cage size, the number of birds housed in a single cage, and how soiled it becomes. Feeder bowls should be disinfected at least twice a week.
A simple wicker nest basket is important for pairs to roost in at night. Owners should purchase dried grass or a nesting material so the pair can fill their basket and build their home.
Finches are common birds and popular because of their naturally social personalities, easy care and beautiful song. With a little help and encouragement from your educated staff, new finch owners can have a great beginning experience and look forward to a happy relationship with their new-feathered friends.
FINCH BASICS
Reprinted by Pretty Birds from Pet Product News by Gary & Robbie Ralston
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