The finch is perfect for the adoption of a first domestic bird because it has the advantage of requiring little space and little investment. It is rather discreet, which allows you to enjoy its pleasant company. Its song can be very evolved while other finches only emit small sounds. The characteristics of this kind of domestic bird must be known in order to meet its needs in the best possible way.
Varied dietary needs
The majority of finches owners have got into the habit of feeding them exclusively with seeds. Although these elements are indispensable in any food for such a bird, a vitamin deficiency can be caused. It will be essential to make sure that food supplements are introduced to keep the finch healthy. Feed is a better option, but it should not be the only component of the diet, as this may unbalance it. Intakes of fruit and vegetables are essential to ensure an adequate supply of vitamins.
During the breeding season, it will be necessary to offer egg pâtés, rich in proteins, which will allow them to find the necessary energy. As with many birds, cuttlefish bones are great dietary supplements because they provide exactly the right amount of calcium and phosphorus needed by the finch. The integration of insects in the diet can have an important nutritional interest so you should not hesitate to give crickets or worms to your pet bird. It is also important to know that the finch appreciates that its prey is alive.
A large capacity cage
Even if the finch is a small bird, it particularly appreciates space so it will be necessary to provide a large aviary so that it can fly wherever it wants. Perches will have to be installed so that it can land there according to its movements. Finches appreciate having games, swings and places to nest in their cage, so it will be necessary to install enough according to the number of finches present. If branches are present in the cage, you should choose a circular unwaxed paper covering which has the advantage of not being toxic and leaving no trace on the legs.
Food trays should not be placed under the perches to prevent the finches’ droppings from spoiling the food. If the size of the cage allows it, it is preferable to separate the place where the finches come to drink from that of the feeder. This precaution helps to prevent the premature mould growth of a certain number of feeds that are placed too close to a moist source. As for the position of the cage, it should never be in a draughty place. A space exposed to the sun would be a bad idea because the temperature inside the cage would be much too high for finches.
Opt for a group purchase
The finch is not a solitary bird so it will be important to buy at least two of them at the time of adoption. They will be able to familiarize themselves together with their new environment. Choosing several finches is a guarantee of satisfaction for finches because they like to move around together and eat together. In the case of a couple, it will then be necessary to accept the presence of babies on a regular basis, unless all the nests and branches in the cage that could be used to create a nest are prohibited. They are not among the birds that like to be observed and they will generally move around and sing in the absence of a close public.
Pet stores will advise the purchase of a large cage or aviary for this type of bird that loves to fly from perch to perch. They will also be able to explain the phenomenon of competition that can exist between two finches and which can trigger a certain aggressiveness. For breeders and specialists alike, if the person is able to adopt a small group of about six finches, the atmosphere will be all the better.
Special needs
Finches are a species that needs a lot of light during the day. This does not mean heat but really light rays so it will be relevant to install UV lighting to provide them with sufficient light. This characteristic helps to maintain good health both physically and psychologically because darkness makes them depressed. As far as temperature is concerned, the temperature of a house is perfect for finches, which adapt quickly.
Sick finches should be moved and given the opportunity to be in a cage in a room where the temperature is thirty degrees, while they recover. Several bowls of water should be installed in the cage or aviary because finches like to drink from them but have the particularity of loving to bathe. Multiplying the number of water points will then allow it to rehydrate in some bowls and take baths with pleasure in one of the other bowls.
