White Canary Common Varieties: There are many varieties of the small active canaries and they vary in color. They were originally introduced to Europe by the Spaniards who discovered them in the Canary Islands off the coast of Africa. The variety of colors and the beautiful song of the male bird make the canary an entertaining pet. Some examples of canaries are: Red Factor - A brilliant red canary, which was bred with another type of bird to introduce a red factor into the canary's genetic structure. Crested Canary - One of the oldest breeds with a unique crest or tuft of feathers at the crown of the head.

Traits: If properly cared for, the canary can live up to five years. Canaries are not typically a bird that can be handled, although there are a few rare cases. They are better as pets to be watched as opposed to being held. Canaries are active, amusing and the males tend to have a soothing song. Be careful when mixing varieties, as all breeds do not get along. If breeding is not desired, females can be kept together without difficulty. Canaries also, when nesting, do best with an open nest.

Feeding: A canary's metabolism is very active and could starve to death in as little as 24 hours if it does not eat. Canaries should eat a staple diet of fresh fortified canary seed or pellet daily. Canaries only eat off the top of what is offered, so be sure to check the food daily. Besides a variety of seed mix or pellet, offer chopped dark green and yellow vegetables and a variety of fresh fruits in addition to a protein source like mature legumes, hard cooked chopped egg, and grated cheese. Remove fresh fruits and vegetables within 2 hours of offering to prevent spoilage. If the bird gets too much liquid from the fresh fruits and vegetables, the droppings could become runny. Stop the fresh food for a day to see if this is the reason. Millet Spray also makes an excellent supplement for canaries. Birds require fresh water each day. Wash and rinse their water cup out thoroughly prior to adding fresh water to reduce bacteria growth. Powdered vitamins can be lightly sprinkled on the fresh food, but putting it in the water can encourage bacterial growth.

Housing: When choosing a cage for your canary, remember length is more beneficial to the bird than height. Canaries enjoy flying, therefore, the larger the cage the better. Ideally the cage for a canary should measure a minimum of 12 " long by 15" high and 9" wide. Perches are an essential part of the cage and should be chosen to suit the feet of the canary. Approximately 3" of perch space per bird is best. A variety of perch sizes, shapes, and diameters will help exercise the bird's feet and toes. Place perches strategically to prevent droppings from contaminating water and food dishes and to prevent the tail from hanging in dishes or on the floor. Toys, such as bells and mirrors, in the canary's cage will keep your bird entertained. Always have a cuttlebone to supply your canary with calcium and prevent beak overgrowth. To aid the bird in keeping itself clean, we recommend placing a suitable size birdbath in the cage on a weekly basis. Place your canary's cage at eye-level in a bright area free from drafts and direct sunlight.