How to Feed Finches

Finches are low-maintenance, relatively quiet pets requiring little human interaction. They take up little room, are easy to tend and offer a diversion through their activity and song. Finches are inexpensive to purchase and require few supplies. For these reasons, a finch makes an ideal pet for apartment dwellers. Apart from cleaning the cage, the primary responsibility of a finch owner is feeding the bird.

Things You'll Need

  • Finch seed
  • Finch feeder
  • Cuttlebone
  • Oyster shell
  • Protein source
  • Grit
  • Sprouts, fruit or greens
  • Supplement
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a minimum of one teaspoon of finch seed per bird in a feeder. Use more in cold weather or if the bird is molting. Do not worry about overfeeding. Finches eat only as much as they need.

    • 2

      Give the finch constant access to a cuttlebone and oyster shell for calcium, both available at pet shops.

    • 3

      Feed pieces of hard-boiled egg to birds that are molting or raising hatchlings to fulfill increased protein requirements. Other protein options include dry dog food, bread soaked in milk and mealworms.

    • 4

      Sprinkle grit on the floor of the cage to aid the bird's digestion.

    • 5

      Give the bird sprouted seeds, soaked seeds, millet, and, occasionally, greens or small pieces of pear or apple.

    • 6

      Ask your veterinarian or pet store for a vitamin supplement recommendation. Present the supplement to the finch in a separate bowl according to the dosage instructions.