Canaries

Canaries are small finch like birds. They have been bred in captivity for centuries. They are so domesticated that they have been developed as specific breeds. There are two primary categories of canary breeds; Song Canaries and Type Canaries.  All canaries (at least the males) will sing, but Song canaries are specific breeds that have been bred to sing a particular song. Type Canaries on the other hand are breeds that have been bred for color and conformation.

Diet

Canaries are primarily seed eaters. Basic canary seed mixes are comprised of canary grass seed, flax, rape, and niger thistle seeds. Specialized mixes are also used that contain a wide variety of seeds. Eggfoods and greens such as kale, romaine and leaf lettuces are also offered in the overall diet.

Use of an avian daily multivitamin is recommended. These are usually water soluble and can be added to the drinking water or sprinkled over the food. If the vitamin is added to the water, the water container must be thoroughly washed each day.

Fresh water should always be available.

Housing

Canaries are housed in cages. There are hundreds of shapes and sizes of cages available. Because of their activity level, Canaries do best in a rectangular cage longer than it is wide. Tall narrow columnar style cages are not at all suited for canaries. They need room to fly. Perches should be placed across the cage at both ends so that the birds can fly back and forth.

The door opening must be large enough for you to reach in with your hand and possibly a small net so that you can remove a bird from the cage easily.

If you are planning on trying to breed your canary consideration should also be given to nest location and access. Sometimes a separate opening is needed for the nest.

The wires should be spaced closely enough to keep the bird from putting it's head through the opening. Wire spacing of 3/8" to 1/2" is recommended.

A pull out tray at the bottom makes for easier cleaning.

Handling & Care

Canaries have been domestically raised for generations. When purchasing a canary look for an active bird with clear bright eyes and sleek feathers. Never purchase a bird that is sitting still and puffed up.

Canaries are best kept as individuals. Two males in the same cage will invariably fight.

Birds keep their plumage in peak condition by preening. Providing a large shallow dish of room temperature water is a great way of offering them a bath. There are also bath houses that attach to the opening of the cage.