All About Finches
Finches are cheerful, social, and delightfully active little songbirds that make a wonderful addition to many homes. Known for their gentle chirps and lively behaviour, finches are ideal for bird lovers who enjoy observing natural behaviour more than close handling. Their compact size and relatively straightforward care needs make them a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned avian keepers alike.
Our Finch Species
We keep a range of beautiful and sociable finch species, each with unique colouration and personality traits. Popular finches you may encounter include:
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Zebra Finches – Small, hardy, and active, with bold markings and cheerful calls.
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Gouldian Finches – Brightly coloured “rainbow” finches with striking plumage.
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Society (Bengalese) Finches – Very social birds that thrive in flocks.
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Other Finch Varieties – Speciality and rare finches may be available depending on stock.
Finches are best kept in pairs or small groups, as solitary finches can become stressed without company.
Finch Aviary
Finches are active flyers, and their enclosures should reflect that. A wide, rectangular flight cage provides the horizontal space they need to exercise daily. For a pair, a habitat of at least ~61 cm (24″) long, 36 cm (14″) wide, and 46 cm (18″) high is recommended, with larger spaces ideal for groups.
Diet & Nutrition
Healthy finches need a balanced diet. While a seed mix formulated for finches is a good base, it should be complemented with other foods for optimal nutrition. Many keepers offer a pelleted diet, as this can provide a more complete nutritional profile than seed alone. Fruits and vegetables like leafy greens and small pieces of fruit can be introduced in moderation for variety.
Health & Care
Maintaining cleanliness is essential for your finches’ health. Remove soiled liners and debris daily, and wash food and water dishes every day. Perform a deeper clean of the entire cage at least weekly, using bird-safe cleaning products and rinsing thoroughly.
Finches enjoy bathing several times a week; offering a shallow dish of water allows them to keep their feathers in good condition. A clean environment also reduces the risk of infections and parasites.
Frequently Asked Questions
about Lovebirds
Do finches need company?
Yes. Finches are highly social birds and should never be kept alone. They are happiest and healthiest when kept in pairs or small flocks of their own species.
2. Are finches easy to care for?
Finches are considered relatively low-maintenance birds, but they still require daily care, clean water, a balanced diet, regular cage cleaning, and a suitable environment to thrive.
3. Do finches like to be handled?
Most finches do not enjoy being handled. They are best suited to owners who enjoy watching natural behaviours rather than interacting physically like you would with parrots.
4. What size cage do finches need?
Finches need a wide, rectangular cage that allows horizontal flight. Bigger is always better, especially when keeping more than two birds.
5. What foods are unsafe for finches?
Finches should never be fed avocado, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, onions, garlic, or foods high in salt or sugar, as these can be harmful or fatal.