Society Finch

Society finches (also called Bengalese finches) are charming, social birds that thrive in groups. Unlike most finches, they are domesticated and don’t exist in the wild. Known for their sweet chirps and excellent parenting skills, these peaceful birds come in various color mutations and are ideal for mixed aviaries.

ESSENTIAL FACTS

FeatureDetails
Scientific NameLonchura striata domestica
Size/Weight4-5 inches | 15-20g
Lifespan5-7 years (up to 10 with care)

IDENTIFICATION

FeatureDetails
ColorsWhite, fawn, chocolate, pied variations
BeakShort, thick, grayish-pink
Gender IDMales sing more; DNA testing for certainty

DIET

ComponentDetails
Base DietFinch seed mix (1 tsp/bird/day)
SupplementalSprouted seeds, greens (2-3x/week)
CalciumCuttlebone always available

HOUSING

FeatureDetails
Cage Size24″L × 16″W × 18″H (pair)
Flight SpaceHorizontal orientation preferred
NestingWicker baskets/coconut fiber

BEHAVIOR

TraitDetails
SocialMust be kept in pairs/groups
VocalizationSoft chirps (males may sing)
ParentingExcellent foster parents for other finches

CARE SCHEDULE

FrequencyTasks
DailyFresh seed/water, health observation
WeeklyCage cleaning, bath offer (3x)
MonthlyDeep clean, perch rotation

Special Notes

Temperature: Keep between 65-75°F (no drafts)

Compatibility: Excellent with other peaceful finches

Breeding: Will breed year-round without light control

Society finch care guide and products

Society Finch Care Schedule

DAILY CARE

TaskDetailsTime
Seed RefreshFinch seed mix (1 tsp per bird)Morning
Water ChangeClean shallow dishes (2+ locations)AM & PM
Egg FoodDuring breeding season onlyEvening
Social CheckObserve group interactionsEvening

WEEKLY CARE

TaskDetailsFrequency
Full Cage CleanRemove all debris, wipe perchesSunday
Bath OfferShallow dish (1″ deep, room temp)3x/week
Greens/SproutsOffer chopped greens/sprouted seedsWednesday

MONTHLY CARE

TaskDetailsWhen
Deep DisinfectionVinegar solution for entire cage1st of month
Perch RotationReplace/clean all perchesMonthly
Nest Box CheckReplace old nesting materialAs needed

Society Finch Pro Tips

Group Dynamics: Minimum 3 birds recommended to prevent bullying.

Breeding Control: Limit daylight to 10-12 hours to prevent overbreeding.

Entertainment: Add millet sprays and shallow water dishes for bathing.