Finches are a family of small songbirds that can be found in flocks across the world. These social birds thrive when kept in pairs or small groups and are generally "hands-off" birds that do not enjoy being handled the same way most other parrot species do. However, with daily socialization, some hand-raised finches (especially zebra finches) can be trained to perch on their pet parent's fingers. With proper care, finches can live 5-10 years, depending on the species.
In this comprehensive care guide, we've compiled everything you need to know about caring for a Finch, including cage setup, habitat requirements, diet, grooming, and all essential supplies. We've evaluated each product based on quality, safety, appropriateness for finches, ease of use, and value. All products reviewed here include direct Amazon purchase links with our affiliate tag.
Quick Answer: Essential Finch Supplies
If you're in a hurry, here are the must-have items for a Finch:
- Habitat: 24" L x 14" W x 18" H Flight Cage - At least for a pair, horizontal space preferred
- Food: High-Quality Pelleted Food - 60-70% of diet, formulated for finches
- Perches: Variety of Perches - Different sizes, heights, textures, ¼-½ inch diameter
- Toys: Variety of Toys - Small bird toys, mirrors, swings
- Cuttlebone: Cuttlebone - Calcium supplement, beak maintenance
- UV Light: Full-Spectrum UV Light - 10-12 hours daily, 12-18 inches from perches
About Finches
Finches are a family of small songbirds that can be found in flocks across the world. This care sheet outlines basic care needs for a variety of finch species, including Gouldian finch, Orange weaver finch, Society finch, Spice finch, and Zebra finch.
Finch Characteristics
Finches are social animals that thrive when kept in pairs or small groups (as long as the birds have been properly introduced). Generally, finches are "hands-off" birds that do not enjoy being handled the same way most other parrot species do. However, with daily socialization, some hand-raised finches (especially zebra finches) can be trained to perch on their pet parent's fingers.
Finches are small, like to sing, are social with each other, and live in groups. They have cone-shaped beaks perfect for cracking open nuts and seeds, and they are some of the smallest pet bird species available. With proper care, finches can live 5-10 years, depending on the species.
Average adult size ranges from 3-6 inches long from head to end of tail, depending on the species. Finches are granivorous (grain-eaters) and are considered beginner-friendly birds.
Finch Habitat Setup
Choosing the Right Enclosure
A pair of finch birds should be housed in a rectangular flight cage that measures at least 24" L x 14" W x 18" H. Ideally, habitats should be long (i.e., with lots of horizontal floor space) rather than tall, so the birds have plenty of space to fly back and forth comfortably. The spaces between the cage's bars should be ⅜-inch apart or smaller to prevent birds from escaping or getting their heads or legs stuck.
If more than two finches are housed in the same habitat, the enclosure's size should be increased accordingly. Always provide the largest habitat possible. Homemade habitats or any habitat made with wood or galvanized wire are not recommended. These materials can expose birds to potentially toxic chemicals that can cause serious medical problems if ingested.
Key Features: At least 24" L x 14" W x 18" H for a pair, horizontal space preferred, ⅜-inch bar spacing or smaller, avoid wood and galvanized wire
Setting Up Your Habitat
Finches are comfortable in average household temperatures from 65 F to 80 F. Pet parents should be cautious of extreme temperature changes. Finch habitats should be in a quiet, low-traffic area of the home to avoid startling or stressing the birds out. Keep habitats off the floor and in a draft-free, well-lit area that's not near an air conditioner or accessible to other pets, including cats and dogs.
Pet parents should make sure that no habitat parts or toys are made with lead, zinc, lead-based paints, galvanized metal, or other potentially toxic materials. All these materials can cause serious medical issues if ingested by finches.
Bedding
The bottom of a finch's habitat should have a removable metal grate so droppings can fall below the bird's feet. Pet parents should line the tray at the base of the habitat with habitat paper or other paper-based bedding. This will help keep the environment clean and minimize dust.
Key Features: Removable metal grate, paper-based bedding, clean environment, minimal dust
Lighting
Birds need exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light to produce vitamin D in their skin so they can absorb dietary calcium. Glass windows filter out UV light, so placing a finch's habitat next to an indoor window is not enough. Instead, birds can get natural UV exposure from the sun by spending time outside in an escape-proof outdoor cage when the weather permits. Birds should never be left unattended while outside and should not be placed in direct sunlight.
To supplement UV exposure, pet parents can shine a full-spectrum UV light designed for birds on their finches' habitat for 10-12 hours each day. UV lights should be about 12-18 inches away from where the bird perches. Replace lights every six months, as their potency wanes over time.
Key Features: Full-spectrum UV light, 10-12 hours daily, 12-18 inches from perches, replace every 6 months
Décor and Accessories
Perches: Pet parents should place perches of varying sizes, heights, textures, and materials in their finches' habitat to prevent pressure sores from developing on the soles of the birds' feet. Perches should be at least 3 inches long and have a ¼- to ½-inch diameter. If a perch's diameter is too wide, birds will not be able to grip it properly. This can lead to falls and other serious injuries.
Concrete, wood, braided rope, and natural branches all make suitable materials for perches. Sandpaper perches, gravel perches, and sanded perch covers are not recommended because these materials can cause irritation and sores on the soles of birds' feet.
Toys: Finches should have access to a variety of toys, including mirrors, swings, and small bird toys. Toys should be appropriately sized for finches and made from safe, non-toxic materials. Rotate toys regularly to maintain interest and prevent boredom.
Key Features: Varying sizes and textures, ¼-½ inch diameter, concrete/wood/rope/natural branches, variety of toys
Habitat Mates
As highly social birds, the finch thrives when housed with one or more finches. Depending on the species and time of year, some finches can be kept in same-sex pairs to avoid the possibility of breeding.
Certain finches can be aggressive toward other species, especially during mating season. If you want to house different types of finches in the same enclosure, consult an experienced finch breeder or avian veterinarian for help in determining which species can be housed together successfully.
In all cases, pet parents must take precautions before housing more than one finch in the same habitat. Introductions should be done slowly, in neutral territory, and under close supervision to ensure the finches are compatible. Pet parents should monitor their birds for aggressive behavior and separate them if they fight.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Key Features | Best For | Size/Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finch Flight Cage | Horizontal space, ⅜-inch bar spacing, rectangular design | Housing finches, flight space | 24" L x 14" W x 18" H minimum |
| Pelleted Food | Nutritionally complete, formulated for finches | Base diet, balanced nutrition | 60-70% of diet |
| Variety of Perches | Different sizes, heights, textures, ¼-½ inch diameter | Foot health, preventing pressure sores | At least 3 inches long |
| UV Light | Full-spectrum, vitamin D production, calcium absorption | Health maintenance, vitamin D | 10-12 hours daily, 12-18 inches away |
Finch Diet and Nutrition
Dietary Requirements
Finches enjoy a range of foods, including pelleted food, seeds, vegetables, fruits, and the occasional treat. Finches should always have access to fresh, clean water. Pet parents should never share food from their mouths or plates with their finch. Human mouths have microorganisms that can cause illness in birds.
Base Diet
A nutritious and well-balanced diet for a finch includes a high-quality pelleted food formulated for finches; a nutritionally complete pelleted food should make up at least 60-70% of a finch's diet. Use the manufacturer's instructions to determine how much food should be given daily. Discard any uneaten pellets before each feeding.
Key Features: High-quality pellets, formulated for finches, 60-70% of diet, nutritionally complete
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables may be offered in limited quantities. Fruits and vegetables should be chopped into bite-sized pieces, since finches have very small beaks. Safe foods for finches include bell peppers, leafy greens, carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and green beans.
Be sure to discard any uneaten fruits and vegetables after 10 hours, as they may spoil and cause infection if eaten.
Key Features: Bite-sized pieces, limited quantities, safe foods, discard after 10 hours
Seeds
A variety of seeds may be offered in very limited quantities. Seeds contain fat that is important in the production of hormones that encourage mating behaviors, including singing. Seeds should not be the mainstay in a finch's diet. All-seed diets are deficient in vitamins, minerals, and protein.
Finches remove the hulls of seeds before eating them, so pet parents do not need to give them an indigestible grit supplement to help them break down whole seeds.
Key Features: Limited quantities, not mainstay of diet, encourage mating behaviors
Feeding Guidelines
Finches need more protein in their diet while breeding and egg-laying, especially if they are not consuming a nutritionally complete and balanced pelleted food as their base diet. Pet parents may offer their finches a very small amount of commercially available "egg food" formulated for finches, small amounts of cooked egg, or live or freeze-dried insects (including crickets, mealworms, and waxworms) two to three times weekly. Only adult finches should be offered live foods.
Millet spray can be fed as an occasional treat, no more than a few times a week. Treats should not make up more than 10% of a bird's diet. Do not allow finches to ingest chocolate, caffeine, or alcohol, as they are all toxic and can cause death or serious illness. Avoid treats that are high in fat, sugar, or salt.
Key Features: Increased protein during breeding, egg food, live/freeze-dried insects, millet spray as treat
Finch Grooming and Care
Bathing
Finches enjoy taking baths whenever water is present, so water dishes should be large enough for them to bathe in. Pet parents can groom finches that do not regularly bathe themselves by gently misting them with lukewarm water from a clean spray bottle a few times a week.
Key Features: Large water dishes, misting with lukewarm water, regular bathing
Nail Care
Nails must be trimmed on an as-needed basis, which can range from every few weeks to months. Nails should be trimmed by a trained professional, avian veterinarian, or someone otherwise trained to trim birds' nails to prevent injury. Nail clippers must be sterilized before use. If bleeding occurs, a styptic powder can be used to stop the bleeding quickly.
Key Features: Professional trimming, sterilized clippers, styptic powder for bleeding
View Nail Care Supplies on Amazon
Beak Care
Most finches won't need to have their beaks trimmed, and they should stay in good condition with daily use. Underlying conditions, such as liver disease or deformity from trauma, can cause abnormal beak growth and must be addressed by an avian veterinarian.
Cuttlebone can help maintain beak health and provide calcium. Provide a cuttlebone holder to keep it secure in the cage.
Key Features: Usually self-maintained, cuttlebone for calcium, veterinary care if abnormal
View Cuttlebone Holders on Amazon
Wing Care
Finches need to stay fully flighted and should not have their wings' flight feathers clipped. Flight is important for their physical and mental health.
Finch Habitat Maintenance
Daily Cleaning
Pet parents should spot-clean their finch habitat daily, removing any soiled material and discarded food. Water and food bowls must be washed daily. Substrate, bedding, and habitat liners should be replaced at least once a week, or more often if needed.
Deep Cleaning
Pet parents should only use cleaning agents formulated for pets when cleaning their finches' cage, as birds' respiratory systems are sensitive to aerosolized fumes.
To clean a finch's habitat, take these steps:
- Move the finch to a secure environment (such as another habitat or travel cage) in a separate air space. Remove any old substrate, bedding, and accessories from the habitat.
- Use a bird habitat cleaner or 3% bleach solution to wash the habitat and any accessories.
- Rinse the habitat and accessories thoroughly with water, making sure to remove any trace amounts or residual smells left by the cleaning agent or bleach solution.
- Allow the habitat and its contents to dry completely before placing new substrate, bedding, and clean accessories back into the habitat.
- Return the bird to the clean habitat.
Key Features: Daily spot-cleaning, weekly deep cleaning, bird-safe cleaners, thorough rinsing
Finch Veterinary Care
Annual Care
Finches should be seen by a veterinarian once a year. A transport carrier or cage should be used and pictures of their cage, diet, and supplies at home can be shown to the veterinarian as part of the exam. Be sure to obtain pictures of all labels, not just the products themselves. Covering the travel carrier can help with protection from the elements and fostering a safe environment for your finch.
Signs of a Healthy Finch
- Bright and alert
- Clean, clear, bright eyes
- Clean nostrils
- Symmetrical, intact beak that closes appropriately
- Intact, clean feathers
- Clean, smooth feet that can grasp completely closed with equal strength
- Full and equal range of motion of wings
- Clean and dry vent/cloaca
- Consistent droppings
When to Call a Vet
Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:
- Eye discharge
- Nasal discharge, one or both sides
- Wheezing or sneezing
- Rapid breathing
- Overgrown beak or fractures to beak
- Feather plucking, bleeding feathers, uneven feather growth
- Constantly fluffed feathers
- Foot sores or favoring a foot
- Limping, unwillingness to use a limb or wing, or holding a wing abnormally
- Moist feathers around cloaca or any discharge from cloaca
- Runny, liquid, or abnormally colored droppings
- Abnormal egg shells or laying pattern
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting or regurgitating
- Hiding
- Not vocalizing
- Head tilt
Common Illnesses in Finches
- Feather picking or other anxiety- or boredom-related behaviors
- Parasites—mites and lice
- Diarrhea
- Yeast (candida)
- Avian poxvirus
- Trauma
- Heavy metal toxicities
- Teflon toxicity
- Cancer
Important Safety Considerations
Avoid Nonstick Cookware
Avoid using nonstick cookware and other appliances with a nonstick coating (such as Teflon™). Nonstick coatings have a polymer called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). When heated, PTFE releases colorless, odorless fumes that can kill pet birds that inhale them.
Toxic Materials
Pet parents should make sure that no habitat parts or toys are made with lead, zinc, lead-based paints, galvanized metal, or other potentially toxic materials. All these materials can cause serious medical issues if ingested by finches.
Temperature Control
Finches are comfortable in average household temperatures from 65 F to 80 F. Pet parents should be cautious of extreme temperature changes. Keep habitats away from drafts, air conditioners, and direct sunlight.
Stress Prevention
Finches can get stressed easily, so pet parents should not place their finch's habitat in a busy, loud area of the home or handle the bird forcefully. Finch habitats should be in a quiet, low-traffic area of the home to avoid startling or stressing the birds out.
Final Verdict
Finches are a family of small songbirds that can be found in flocks across the world. These social birds thrive when kept in pairs or small groups and are generally "hands-off" birds that do not enjoy being handled the same way most other parrot species do. However, with daily socialization, some hand-raised finches (especially zebra finches) can be trained to perch on their pet parent's fingers.
With a proper habitat (at least 24" L x 14" W x 18" H for a pair, with horizontal space preferred), a balanced diet (60-70% high-quality pelleted food, fresh fruits and vegetables, limited seeds), appropriate perches and toys, full-spectrum UV lighting, and regular veterinary care, your finch can live a long and healthy life of 5-10 years.
Quality supplies are an investment in your finch's long-term health and happiness. Choose products that are safe, appropriate for finches, and designed to meet their specific needs. With proper care and attention, your finch will be a delightful and entertaining companion for many years to come.
Use this care guide as a reference when setting up and maintaining your finch's habitat, and don't hesitate to consult with an avian veterinarian if you have questions about your finch's specific needs or notice any signs of illness.