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Finches are the easiest birds to keep in an aviary. However, there are some aspects of finch care that you do need to be mindful of when you plan to have these birds. They are most comfortable in pairs, so when you plan to purchase the birds, you should plan on buying at least a pair of birds. It is not difficult to tell the difference between males and females of this species by their colours, but when they are immature It is often hard to tell the difference between the sexes. In the zebra finch species, which is the most popular, the males have an orange blush on each cheek. Other varieties display a red bill, but these differences usually don't become apparent until the birds are about two months old.

A wicker box is the best type of nest to use for a bird that is hatching eggs. The best type of nesting material is clean dry grass, but materials with natural cotton fibers are also quite effective at providing a soft base.

Inside the cage you have for the finches, you should always provide the birds with fresh, clean water. As a treat you can provide them with cuttlebone and oyster shell ground into small pieces. These ingredients provide the birds with the grit they need eliminating the need to placing gravel inside the cage. You can buy the finch mix that you need for food at the pet store, but you also have to provide the finches with spray mallet at all times. In addition, you will also have to feed these birds nutritional supplements so that you ensure they have the proper amounts of calcium they need in their diet. The bottom of the cage should be off the floor to prevent small mice from getting inside.

You have to make sure you have the proper size cage. Just because these birds are small doesn't mean they don't need plenty of room in which they can fly about. Many owners make the mistake of buying a cage that really is too small. A full spectrum fluorescent light will also show off the birds perfectly. The cage also needs areas where the birds can perch, such as natural branches. Willow, birch, alder, oak, apple and cedar work well in this capacity. You will also have to replace them on a regular basis. Cover the cage with mesh material to prevent the birds from flying out of the cage or from injuring themselves as they would on a glass cover.

Some of the medical problems that can develop with finches include rapid breathing, excessive sleeping, loose or scant droppings and ruffled feathers. When you notice any of these symptoms, it is important for you to take the birds to an avian veterinarian as soon as possible.

Learn more about this author, Frances Stanford.
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