Quick Facts
Basic Information
- Scientific Name: Serinus canaria domestica
- Average Lifespan: 8-15 years
- Size: 12-15 cm (4.7-5.9 inches)
- Weight: 15-25 grams
- Colors: Yellow, orange, white, red, green, and variegated
Care Requirements
- Cage Size: Minimum 45x30x30cm for one bird
- Temperature Range: 15-25°C (59-77°F)
- Diet: Canary seed mix, fresh greens, egg food, and occasional fruit
- Social Needs: Can be kept singly or in pairs, males sing best alone
Costs
- Purchase Price: NZ$50-120
- Monthly Care: NZ$10-20
- Initial Setup: NZ$100-200
Image Gallery
Detailed Information
Characteristics & Personality
Canaries are beloved for their beautiful singing, vibrant colors, and gentle nature. Males are the best singers, while females are quieter. They are generally not hand-tame but are delightful to watch and listen to.
Positive Traits
- Lovely singing (males)
- Low maintenance
- Colorful and cheerful
- Good for apartments and quiet homes
Challenges
- Not typically hand-tame
- Can be sensitive to drafts and temperature changes
- Require regular cage cleaning
Care Guide
Housing Requirements
Provide a spacious cage with horizontal bars for climbing. Include perches of varying diameters, a cuttlebone, and a bath. Place the cage in a well-lit area away from drafts and direct sunlight.
Diet & Nutrition
A balanced diet includes: canary seed mix, fresh greens (spinach, dandelion, chickweed), egg food (especially during breeding), and occasional fruit (apple, orange). Fresh water must be available at all times.
Health & Wellness
Common health issues include mites, respiratory infections, and egg binding. Regular cage cleaning and a varied diet help prevent problems. Annual vet check-ups are recommended.
Training & Intelligence
Canaries are not typically trained for tricks or taming, but they can learn to recognize their owner and may respond to routines. Males can be encouraged to sing with music or recordings.
Training Difficulty
Low - Canaries are best enjoyed for their song and beauty rather than interaction.
Song & Mimicry
Males are excellent singers and can learn new tunes. Singing is most frequent in spring and summer.
Buying Guide
Best Time to Buy
Spring and early summer are ideal for purchasing canaries, as young birds are more readily available and in good health.
Where to Buy in Christchurch
- Christchurch Bird Club members (recommended)
- Reputable pet stores in Christchurch
- Registered breeders
What to Look For
- Bright, alert eyes
- Clean, smooth feathers
- Active and lively behavior
- Clear song (for males)
- Clean vent area
Is This Bird Right For You?
Ideal Owner Profile
Canaries are perfect for people who want a low-maintenance, beautiful, and musical pet. They are ideal for apartments, quiet homes, and those who enjoy listening to birdsong.
Lifestyle Considerations
- Enjoys listening to birdsong
- Can provide a quiet, draft-free environment
- Willing to clean the cage regularly
- Prefers a pet to watch and listen to rather than handle
- Long-term commitment (8-15 years)