What can i feed my zebra finch when i get one? Do they need special pellets? Can they eat parrot chop? Do i give them meals or just leave the food in and take it out later? Also, how much food do you give to small birds?
Hi Taymia,
Finches will usually learn to eat finch pellets, or some prefer the canary granules – either is fine. I would recommend that you get 2 finches because they need some type of companionship. If you don’t want to deal with breeding, then get two of the same sex. Unless you plan for them to breed, they do not need a nest. Nests are only used by birds for breeding and raising chicks. As to the rest of the diet, a small amount of parrot chop is fine, but it needs to be chopped very finely. Finches like dark leafy greens, broccoli florets, and many finely chopped veggies. Some will also eat fruit – you can put a small wedge of apple between the bars and they will actually peck at it. A piece of multi-grain bread to pick at is also good on occasion. And a millet spray as an occasional treat. All birds have a high metabolism, but it is very high in finches. It is vital that they have food in the cage at all times. A finch can go without food for as little as a few hours and the digestive system will shut down. Now they do not feed at night, but their metabolism slows down to account for this. There is no maximum amount to feed them – they are highly unlikely to become overweight. I don’t think I’ve ever seen an overweight finch. They do like the small, colorful plastic toys that are made for small birds. They like the 5 plastic rings that hang in a row – often called olympic rings. They will sit in a ring as a swing! They also love swings and anything colorful with little bells and mirrors. A plastic ladder hung from the top of the cage makes a fun swing.
Thank you for asking Lafeber,
Brenda
