🦜 Birds

Canary

A song-filled, hands-off companion.

Canaries are prized for their beautiful songs (mostly males). They prefer to be admired rather than handled, which makes them ideal for people who want a low-contact pet.

Lifespan10–15 years
SizeTiny · 0.5–1 oz
Care levelBeginner
Typical cost$15–25 / month
Great for
Low-contact pet loversSeniorsQuiet homesPeacefulMusicalIndependent
Canary

Photo: NEWSchr · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

Flight cage longer than it is tall so they can fly; away from drafts and kitchens.

Canary seed mix or pellets plus fresh greens.

Flight inside a roomy cage.

Bath dish several times a week.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Air sac mites
  • Respiratory infections
  • Overgrown nails and beak
  • Feather cysts
  • Egg binding
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Avian vet annually.

Find a vet near me

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.