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Society finches are not the kind of bird that one would choose if they want an avian friend that talks and plays with them, but they do make wonderful pets for those that prefer to be spectators.

A good alternative to having pet fish, pet finches can provide hours of entertainment and relaxing sounds, although they do have more care requirements that need to be considered.

Origin and History

Society finches are unique to the pet bird world because unlike most pet birds, they are not naturally found in the wild. This specific type of finch is a domesticated bird and was produced in captivity by cross breeding sharp-tailed and munia finches in Asia where they are native. These species spend their time in grasslands and woodlands where they nest in domed grass structures.

Temperament

Society finches are not birds that are easily handled, but that is because of their small size and not because they are aggressive. Society finches may be easily startled and fly around their enclosures when they aren't nesting or eating, but they are typically peaceful.

If a finch did attempt to bite you, it is unlikely to deliver more than a peck or little pinch due to their small beak.

Society finches get their name from their social personalities and make wonderful breeders and parents. They thrive with a mate or a few other birds in their home.

Speech and Vocalizations

Finches do not talk or scream, but they do make some sounds. These sounds are often described as beeps, chatter, and warbles, but they also sing.

Society finches are often used in laboratory settings to study vocalizations due to the syntax or structure that their songs have. Females are not likely to sing like males do, though.

Society Finch Colors and Markings

Both male and female society finches can come in various combinations of white, brown, and tan shades. They have either two-toned or flesh-colored beaks.

Color mutations include the normal chocolate brown, pied, fawn, chestnut, red-brown, white, crested, albino, dilute, creme-ino, pearl, and grey.

Caring for the Society Finch

Society finches need socialization with other finches so you should never have just one, and plenty of space to fly around in a safe enclosure or aviary is also a must. Unlike some delicate birds, room temperatures are sufficient to house these tiny birds.

If a flight cage is used, small bar spaces must be present to avoid escape and a nest should be provided to allow your finches a place to sleep and cuddle -- even if you don't plan on them breeding.

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Common Health Problems

Finches are especially prone to two types of parasites - air sac mites (Sternostoma tracheacolum), which are life threatening since they reside in the respiratory tract, and scaly face mites (Knemidokoptes pilae) that cause scales on the skin. Both types of mites require veterinary attention.

Aside from mite concerns, society finches are also prone to developing overgrown beaks and nails, and they may need regular trimming.

Diet and Nutrition

Society finches will thrive on a high quality pelleted diet designed for finches. While finches do eat seeds in the wild, they also eat various fruits, flowers, insects, and other items. Just offering a diet of seeds is not complete and balanced.

Fresh fruits, veggies, vitamins, spray millet, cooked egg, and other items will be needed to provide a more well-rounded diet if pellets are not fed.

Exercise

Society finches need to be able to hop around from branch to branch and fly. This means a safe and secure aviary or flight cage should be provided to allow your bird room to spread its wings without being injured.