Canaries As Pets

Friendly birds, canaries are attractive as a choice for pets thanks to their colorful feathers, cheerful song and typically long lifespans, usually 10 years or so. Canaries are sociable birds, generally kept in groups, and require space and exercise. These birds come in plenty of varieties, and while often thought of as being yellow-feathered, are not limited to this appearance.

  1. Where to Buy

    • When it comes to purchasing a canary, prospective owners are advised to go through a specialized breeder rather than a pet shop. Breeders will have carefully tagged the birds to prevent crossbreeding and will also be a source of information for the new owners on matters of how to feed and care for the canary.

    Types

    • Canaries are hardly all the same, and different varieties are recognizable by their color or body form. The first thing canary buyers should know is that only a male canary will sing, and that the quality of a canary's voice will vary from bird to bird, and also by species. Spanish timbrado canaries, for instance, are known for their metallic-sounding vocals. In terms of body appearance, some breeds such as the Parisian frill canary, are recognized for their straight posture, while Scotch fancy canaries have extremely small heads. Canary colors vary from red agate to an opal hue.

    Food

    • The standard food for a canary's diet is a seed mixture, supplemented by vegetables and cooked grains. Canary owners can also feed their pets with foods such as cooked pasta and bread; the birds enjoy fruit, too.

    Housing

    • Canaries can be kept outdoors in an aviary or indoors in a cage, but their living space does need to be reasonably large so that they can exercise; according to Bird Channel, canaries require 24 inches or more of horizontal space. Canaries kept inside should also be let out of their cage on a regular basis for exercise. Owners should ensure that the canary's cage doesn't contain mirrors, which are linked to the development of behavioral issues in these birds, according to Bird Channel.

    Keeping Canaries Happy

    • Pet owners should bear in mind that canaries are happiest when not alone, and generally get on best with other canaries. In a larger aviary, it's wise to avoid placing too many male canaries in the same place, since this can lead to competition. Canary owners should ensure that their pets get a regular supply of both food and water, with a steady, balanced diet. Toys can help keep canaries happy, too.