If you’re considering keeping foreign finches, this guide will cover everything you need to know, including the friendliest finches, how to keep them happy, the best types for beginners, cage requirements, and diet.

What Is the Friendliest Finch to Keep as a Pet?

  • Zebra Finch

    While finches are not as hands-on as parrots or budgies, some species are friendlier than others. The Zebra Finch
    (Taeniopygia guttata) is one of the best choices for those looking for a sociable and engaging pet bird. Zebra finches are active, curious, and can form strong bonds with their owners, especially if handled from a young age.

  • Bengalese Finch

    Another friendly species is the Bengalese
    Finch (Lonchura domestica). These birds are incredibly social and get along well with both humans and other birds. They are easy to care for and thrive in pairs or small groups.

Provide Companionship

Finches are highly social birds that thrive in
pairs or small groups. Keeping a single finch can lead to stress and loneliness, so always keep at least two together.

Give Them Plenty of Space

Finches are active and need room to fly. A
large, horizontal cage with plenty of perches allows them to exercise and
explore.

Enrichment Activities

Providing a variety of perches, swings, and
safe foliage can help stimulate your finches mentally and physically. You can
also place mirrors and bells in their cage to keep them entertained.

Maintain a Routine

Finches appreciate consistency. Keeping a
regular feeding and cleaning schedule helps them feel secure in their
environment.

Offer Natural Light and Fresh Air

Place your finch's cage in a bright room with indirect sunlight. Avoid placing them near direct heat sources or cold drafts.

Best Finches for Beginners

If you’re new to keeping finches, choosing a species that is easy to care for is important. Here are the best finches for beginners:

Zebra Finches

These hardy birds are one of the most popular choices for beginners. They are easy to care for, adaptable, and come in
various colour mutations.

Gouldian Finches

Though slightly more delicate than Zebra or Bengalese finches, Gouldian finches are stunningly beautiful and relatively low-maintenance. They do best in a well-kept aviary or a spacious cage with proper care.

Bengalese Finches

As one of the calmest and most social finches, the Bengalese Finch is an excellent choice for first-time bird owners. They thrive in groups and are very easy going.

Choosing the Right Cage

  • Size Matters:

    Finches need a spacious, horizontal cage that allows them to fly back and forth. A good size for a pair of finches is at least 30 inches wide, 18 inches deep, and 18 inches high.

  • Bar Spacing:

    The bars should be spaced no more than ½ inch apart to prevent them from escaping or getting stuck.

  • Cage Shape:

    A long and wide cage is better than a tall, narrow one, as finches prefer horizontal flight.

Setting Up the Cage

  • Perches:

    Use natural wood perches of varying thickness to promote healthy feet.

  • Nest Boxes:

    While not essential, providing a nest box can make finches feel secure, especially if they are breeding.

  • Toys and Enrichment:

    Simple toys like swings, ladders, and bells can keep them engaged.

  • Lining:

    Use paper towels or bird-safe cage liners for easy cleaning.
Safe4 Disinfectant Range for Cage & Aviary Birds - Haith's

Cleaning

Spot-clean the cage daily, removing any uneaten food and droppings.

Wash food and water dishes every day.

Perform a full cage cleaning once a week, disinfecting perches and accessories.

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Finch Diet: What Do Finches Eat?

A well-balanced diet is essential for keeping your finches healthy. Here’s what to include:

Foreign Finch Mixture - Haith's

Seed Mix

A high-quality finch seed mix should be the base of their diet. Look for one that includes a variety of seeds such as
millet, canary seed, and niger seed.

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Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Finches benefit from fresh produce. Some safe options include:

Apples (without seeds)

Bananas

Carrots (grated)

Leafy greens (kale, spinach, romaine lettuce)

Peppers (mild, non-spicy varieties)

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Egg Food

Egg food is an excellent source of protein, especially during breeding and moulting seasons. You can buy commercial egg food or make your own by mashing a boiled egg with breadcrumbs.

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Cuttlefish Bone - Haith's

Cuttlebone and Mineral Blocks

These provide essential calcium and minerals to support bone health and eggshell production in breeding birds.

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Fresh Water

Finches need access to fresh, clean water at all times. Change their water daily to prevent contamination.

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