Many avian lovers dream of obtaining a pet bird. Canaries are one of the most popular species because of their beautiful vibrant appearance and distinctive song. However, these little birds are trickier to care for than some people expect. That doesn’t mean that they’re not suitable for beginners. But it’s important to know how to care for canaries properly before getting one––or even two!
Canaries Need Large Spaces to Fly and Explore
Canaries require as much space as possible. Birds need to fly; otherwise, they won’t be happy. That’s why owners shouldn’t cram them into tiny cages that prevent them from moving freely. The good news is that canaries are smaller birds, so they don’t need as much room as cockatiels or parrots.
Experts recommend minimum dimensions of 18” L 14” W x 18” H for one pet bird. Another factor to consider is the space between the bars. Owners don’t want their birds escaping because it could put them in a dangerous situation. They may fly outdoors or another pet like a cat may try to attack them. Half an inch is just about right for canaries.
It’s important not to leave canaries in their cage all day. Take them into a secure room or aviary where they have the freedom to fly around without any inhibition. Remember to close doors and windows as well as remove other pets if you’re using a living room.
Recapturing a loose canary can be a little tricky at first. Don’t try to grab it because it may suffer a heart attack from fear. Instead, try to trap the canary by enclosing it within its cage before sealing it shut. Also, cover windows and mirrors, so the bird doesn’t accidentally fly into them.
Are Canaries Low-Maintenance?
It’s relatively easy to care for canaries if you know what you’re getting into. First, you must have the spatial requirements for them. Bear in mind that canaries will make a mess. They’ll toss their food around their cage and the space outside of it. Owners must clean every day to ensure their birds stay healthy. These popular pet birds are very sensitive and canaries are no exception. Keep them away from candles and kitchens because smoke and steam can affect their respiratory systems. This is probably the most arduous aspect of owning a canary.
Canaries love singing, which is one of the most wonderful things about them. However, it can sometimes be grating so don’t expect a quiet house. The good news is they’ll sleep at night and require a dark room. Like all pets, canaries are a big responsibility. However, owning them is incredibly rewarding.
How Do Canaries Behave?
Canaries are playful birds that require mental stimulation. Owners should provide enrichment items like swings and balls to improve their quality of life. These little finches want to have fun, and these items meet their need for engagement. They’re not as affectionate as some other small birds, like parakeets. Nonetheless, owners can train them to perch on their shoulder or finger. Remember, different canaries will have varying personalities and temperaments.
New pet bird owners often question if they should get one or two. Canaries don’t necessarily need company. Never keep two males together because they’re territorial and will fight. It’s generally fine to house a pair of females as long as they have enough space.
Canaries Eat Both Insects and Plants
Canaries are omnivorous and will eat whatever they can find in the wild. You can find different formulated seed mixes for your pet bird. Be mindful that these often have a high-fat content and low nutritional value. This may shorten the life of your bird and cause health problems if you don’t mix up their diet. It’s better to give them pellets instead of an all-seed diet. These can make up to 80% of their diet.
Fruit and vegetables should comprise the remainder of their daily allowance. Most are okay with a few exceptions. Firstly, iceberg lettuce has very few nutrients. Avocado is also toxic for most birds. Remember to wash the fruit and vegetables first because they may still contain chemical traces. Birds have very delicate systems, and you don’t want to risk a veterinary emergency.
Three Alternatives to Canaries
Let’s look at some potential alternatives to canaries. These include larger and smaller birds that require different levels of care. Some birds are low maintenance, while others need more attention. Check them out now.
1. Parakeets Are Great for First-Time Bird Owners
Most experienced bird owners agree that parakeets are easier to care for than canaries. Also known as budgies, these small birds typically show more affection. It’s also simpler to tame them at any stage of their lives. Older canaries will not change their habits and are more challenging to train. Some people prefer parakeets because owning them is more interactive. Others prefer the song and vibrant aesthetic of a canary. Parakeets are typically much cheaper than canaries but live roughly the same length of time (8-15 years).
2. Cockatiels Offer More Interaction Than Canaries
Some people would prefer to own a larger bird. Cockatiels are potentially a great option. They are very engaging and communicative. Owning them is a more interactive experience than with canaries. However, it’s advisable to get two instead of one because they’re more social. They also require more space because of their larger size. One of the most interesting aspects of cockatiels is their crest. This is almost like an antenna that indicates its emotional state. Also, pay attention to its distinctive whistle!
3. Doves Are Relatively Low-Maintenance Birds
Doves may not be as visually striking as the other birds in this guide. However, they make excellent pets because they require less from owners. They can be very social and will allow owners to hand-feed them. It’s easier to bond with these birds than canaries. They feel less like a display pet so this may strike a chord with some owners. Doves are larger and heavier, so they’ll eat more than canaries. They also need more space to move around.
