These three finches have long enjoyed success as family pets, and are often available from captive bred sources. It is preferable to purchase home-bred pets rather than wild-caught imports which are more likely to harbor disease and may even support illegal animal poaching practices in foreign countries.
Zebra Finches are Easy Care Pet Birds
Zebra finch birds are a popular, and widely available species of finch and make a great pet choice for families, school classrooms or apartments. Zebra finches are bird social so they prefer the company of another zebra finch, rather than requiring constant attention from humans like many members of the parrot family. These small birds are also easily acquired, do not cost a lot of money, and are often available from local hobby breeders, because of their tendency to breed in captivity so easily.
Zebra finches tolerate temperature fluctuations and thrive well on a basic seed diet available from pet stores or online sources. They are active and flashy during the day, but are quiet and calm at night. Children will appreciate their curious nature and their flashy colors as well.
Society Finches are a Good Small Bird Pet Choice
Society finches seem to have originated in Japan, and the best sources seem to indicate the species was never seen in the wild, but rather bred in captivity through several crosses of various finch kinds. Society finches then make an unusually ideal pet bird. They are literally born and bred to thrive well in captivity.
Society finches, like zebra finches, are ready breeders in captivity, and make excellent foster parents for other, more difficult types of finches. Society finches, however, do not have any discernible differences between males and females so if a breeding pair is desired (or a same sex pair that will not breed) it would be wise to consult a knowledgeable breeder before purchasing any birds.
Gouldian Finches are Colorful Pet Bird Options
One of the most colorful of the small finches, Gouldian finches are brightly colored with unique markings that are amazing to see in a home environment. Lady Gouldian finches tend to be a bit messier than the Zebra finches, and are not as tolerant of temperature fluctuations. Keep these factors in mind when trying to decide which type of finch to bring home.
If a suitable housing, temperature and maintenance situation can be arranged, Lady Gouldian finches will provide the most color for the money of any of the finches. They can be pricier than Society or Zebra finches to purchase, however finches are rather long-lived compared to other small animal pets. Some finches have been known to live more than 8-10 years.
Whichever finch seems right for the particular situation, make sure that all the necessary care components are in place before purchase. Look for an enclosure, food, water requirements, etc before bringing the finches home.
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