Keeping FINCHES is Entertaining and Quick

Zebra Finch (Taeniopygia guttata)  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Keeping finches as your pets is enjoyable and effortless. Finches call for rather minimal to be healthful as well as delighted in our houses. They provide us with countless a lot of time of entertainment in exchange.

The birds within the finch family happen to be so petite as well as light-weight that they are an excellent selection for birds to enjoy as pets. Many species of finch are generally sturdy and long-lived. Your new feathered pals will supply everyone with many years of companionship as well as leisure.

These little avian species really are pretty sociable and pleasurable. They are nearly continuously energetic inside their cages and aviaries. They jump about, soar about and they even run. A couple of species even do tiny dances.

They have to have a cage or an aviary that has about 20 inches of room for them to spread their wings and fly a bit. For those who take into consideration it 20 inches is about four instances longer than most of these tiny creatures.

You'll need to produce them with lots of fresh water every day. They may also need fresh food every day. They're genuinely easy to feed. These small birds will eat a variety of distinctive varieties of food that continues to be marketed for them. You'll be able to come across their food in any way pet supply retailers, most all grocery shops, and essentially anywhere else you may purchase pet food. If you can not acquire a specialized seed for finches they are going to eat parakeet seed just also. They also will consume the game bird that is certainly crumbled.

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Fresh fruits and vegetables are a number of their preferred foods. Corn, peas, carrots, broccoli and also sweet potatoes will be chopped up and served to these little fellows. They're going to like the fresh organic foods. A fantastic insect or modest worm is often an ideal alternative for them at the same time. Mealworms in unique appear to become one of many favorite foods on the finch diet.

The finch loved ones make such fantastic pets because they're not incredibly noisy birds. Only the males sing and they usually do not sit and sing continuously. They may be compact and require comparatively modest living spaces so they may be wonderful for the particular person who lives in an apartment.

You don't need to walk a finch-like you do a dog. You do not have the fur difficulty in your furniture the way you do having a dog or perhaps a cat. They tend not to get out of their cage when you happen to be at work and chew up your preferred shoes either.

Finches as pets stay put in their cage and let you observe them and their activities. They definitely favor it if you did not choose to touch them normally. You'll not prefer to try and hold your finch a good deal. If you ever do desire to manage the birds they are not negative to bite. If 1 does take place to bite you, the bite is going to be a lot more like a pinch. They tend not to have beaks like parrots so they're going to not result in you to bruise or break the skin.

Retaining finches is fun and uncomplicated, in addition to a terrific way to have a pet that calls for quite a little care.

Submitted by: Dane File About the Author: I invite you to come see my site and read my free mini-course on " Top 10 Secrets To Healthy & Happy Finches” by clicking to http://www.FinchesBirdAnswers.com Source: www.isnare.com Permanent Link: https://www.isnare.com/?aid=931733&ca=Pets

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• Fact Sheet: ZEBRA FINCH - Taeniopygia guttata(birds-at-home.blogspot.com)

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Interesting Information About OSTRICHES

Male and Female ostriches Cape Point (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The ostrich is the largest of living birds. Adult males stand 8 feet tall and weigh more than 300 pounds; the hens are slightly smaller. Six geographical rates differ from one another slightly in size, in skin color of the bare thighs, head, and neck, and in the size and texture of their eggs. These are all members of a single species, the only representative of their order. Until recently Ostriches ranged from the Arabian and Sahara deserts southward throughout Africa.

Ostriches live in open, arid country and usually travel in bands of 10 to 50 birds. They congregate with gnus, zebras, antelopes, and other large grazing mammals in a sort of mutual alliance. The browsing animals stir up insects, small reptiles, and rodents for the ostriches. The ostriches, in turn, with their advantageous height, spot approaching danger. Ostriches also eat fruit, plants, and seeds.

Ostriches have managed to survive on a continent teeming with large predators partly by being alert and shy, partly by their fighting skill, but mainly by their speed. Tales of their running at 60 miles per hour are exaggerated. Pacing with cars shows about half that speed to be their maximum. Though they prefer to run from danger, ostriches will fight when cornered and can be formidable antagonists. They fight with their feet, kicking out and down with vicious slashes of their heavy claws that can easily rip a lion or a man wide open.

The ostrich is the only bird that has lost two of the four toes which most modern birds have. One of these two remaining toes is much smaller than the other, and it too may be disappearing in the evolutionary process of developing a single-toed hoof, as the horse did not so long ago.

As befits the largest of birds, ostrich lays the largest egg of any living bird. Oddly enough, the ostrich egg is one of the smallest in relation to the size of the bird laying it. From 6 to 8 inches long and weighing up to 3 pounds, it is only one percent of the female's weight. The eggs vary from white to yellowish, and their hard shiny surface is pitted with superficial pores of different sizes and shapes.

For a nest, the female ostrich scrapes out a large depression in the sand in which she lays 10 to 12 eggs. Nests with 25 to 30 eggs result from several females laying in them. The frequency of such nests has given rise to the common belief that the ostrich is polygamous, which has yet to be proved. As in most ratites the cock does most of the incubating and sits on the eggs faithfully each night. The ostrich hen also incubates, always by day when her duller color has a protective advantage. Often the eggs are left partly covered with sand in the daytime for the sun to keep warm.

The incubation is 40 to 42 days. The sturdy, dappled chicks, after a short rest from their labors of pecking into the world, are soon able to travel with their parents. About a foot tall, when hatched, they grow about a foot a month until they reach 5 to 6 feet when the growth rate slows down. It takes an ostrich 3 to 4 years to mature fully.

Though able to run vigorously soon after hatching, the chicks usually stretch out flat, when danger threatens, necks extended, and "play possum." The chicks' well-known habit of feigning death probably was the origin of the oft-repeated canard that ostriches bury their heads in the sand at the approach of danger. This, of course, just isn't so.

Ostriches were large and conspicuous residents of the land that cradled our civilization, south, and east of the Mediterranean. Here they have left their record since the dawn of history. Ostrich-egg cups have been found in Assyrian graves dated 3,000 B.C. Ancient Egyptians, Chinese and Greeks also found the strong shells made handy utensils.

In the Roman Empire, the roast ostrich was considered a fitting main course for the Emperor's feasts. Roman physicians used ostrich fat as a drug and prescribed the gizzard stones as a remedy for eye diseases. One ancient and enduring folktale, recorded in the medieval herbals and even mentioned by Shakespeare, is the belief that ostriches can digest metal. This, like the head-burying legend, has some basis in fact. Captive ostriches are attracted by shinning objects and will swallow watches, brooches, bottle tops, and small pieces of metal or glass left within reach. Unless these have sharp points, such items in their diet probably do the birds little harm. They remain in the gizzard to be slowly ground down with the stones the birds swallow to aid their digestion.

Ostriches domesticate readily and do well in captivity, where they have been found to live about 50 years. They have been trained for riding and to pull carts but do not make good draft animals because they tire easily and send squat down and quit. Inclined to be bad-tempered, they make untrustworthy as well as ungainly pets. The voice of the ostrich is a loud hiss and a booming roar.

Ostrich plumes have found a ready market since the days of the Crusades when knights used them to decorate their helmets (this was probably the origin of their use as a heraldic symbol). The plumes reached their height of fashion in the late 19th century when they bought from 50 to 100 per pound. As the supply of wild plumes dwindled, it became profitable to raise ostriches in captivity, for a full-grown male bird produces about a pound of plumes annually.

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The plumes of commerce grow only on the wings and tail. The 16 wings on each wing are purely decorative and dangle and flap crazily in the wind, as the bird runs. The 50 to 60 tail plumes grow in layers above the 14 or so true tail feathers. When mature, the feathers are harvested without harm to the bird, which grows a new set each year.

Ostrich farms were first established in Africa in the 1860s. Ostriches were first taken to America in the 1880s, where they were raised first in California, then in Arizona, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and Florida. The market is no longer as lucrative for plumes as it was 70 years ago, and today the birds are kept mainly in zoos. Their skin makes a fine, soft leather in some demand for some gloves and purses.

By Waleed Khalid Shaikh Hi, This is Waleed and I'm one of the wildlife enthusiasts and I'm striving to disseminate love for animals which is also reflected in my blogs. How about reading some of the most interesting Bald Eagle Facts For Kids. Article Source: EzineArticles

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Disadvantages of Having PARROTS for a Pet

Mature breeding pair of Red-Bellied Parrots (Poicephalus rufiventris) on a perch in a cage.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Parrots can be pretty hard to take care of. Unlike other pets that can be left alone in their cages, parrots are restless creatures who you have to check up on a couple of times every day. Here are just some things that parrots can do to your home.

Parrots can be pretty messy 

If you are the type that would like the house to be spotless, try to reconsider getting a parrot or any pet for that matter. Parrots can be really messy, even a small parakeet.

Their food can be flung everywhere even when they are inside the cage. Your floor can be filled up with pellets, seed, and nutshells. Sticky foods may also be plastered on the walls, on the bars of the cage and even at the ceilings. Foods will literally be everywhere.

Another problem that you may have are their poop, which you really have to clean every day. And they are not that disciplined to only poop in one place. They actually poop everywhere, in bars, in their food dish and even with the toys that you give them. They may even poop in between bars, which may end up on the floor and sometimes even on you.

If you have a cockatiel variety or the grey breed, you will also have to contend with the powder that they have on their feathers. The feathers will stick everywhere. So, you really have to dust every day.

Because of this, you have to scrub the cage, their dish and the whole of the area at least once a day to prevent bacteria from settling in and of course the bad smell.

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Parrots chew on everything

Parrots love chewing wood. In fact, owners of parrots often give them wooden toys to play and chew with inside their cages. Parrots, however, are not satisfied with just these toys. When they get the opportunity, they will chew on everything that they get their hands on. They will puncture your clothes, your furniture, even your books.

This can be really frustrating especially if you are the type of person who wants a clean house. Parrots are not recommended in homes that have dainty and fragile furniture. They should also not be placed in areas where they can break things and chew on antiques.

Be careful with wearing jewelry because they will sure to grab it or chew it. Parrots love shiny things. They can claw the stone right out of your favorite jewelry.

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Raising GEESE - What You Need to Consider and Don't Want to Ignore When Raise GEESE

Toulouse Geese in Normandy (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you want to raise geese, there are a number of things you need to take into serious consideration. Raising geese may sound like fun (and indeed it is), but it actually requires a lot of time and effort, not to mention a great deal of money for investing in the primary needs of geese, such as food, water, shelter, and many others.

If you're serious in this endeavor, it would do you well to check out the rest of this article, which aims to provide interested persons some of the basic stuff they need to know in raising geese. Rest assured you'll get only advice from the experts, simplified for your convenience.

Before you get around to actually raising geese, there are some questions you need to take into account. Some of these questions are the following: Where should you keep the geese? How big should the breeding and rearing area be? How long does it take for goose eggs to hatch? What should you feed baby geese, also known as goslings? How long does it take for goslings to mature and start mating?

But the first thing you should really ask yourself (related to raising goose, that is) is this: What breed of geese should I raise? You see, there are a number of interesting and attractive goose breeds in the world today. Some of them are more popular than others, and each of them has different features that may be advantageous or disadvantageous, depending on what you're looking for.

For example, if you want to raise geese in order to enjoy the good, lean meat they provide, you might want to consider the Toulouse breed for raising goose. This breed boasts of a heavyweight in general, as well as a proficiency in laying eggs. If, on the other hand, you want to raise geese as a hobby and want to admire your collection, you might want to go for the Emden breed, which is widely known for its shiny white feathers.

Another one of the first things you should think about is the place where you intend to raise geese.

By Andrew Grey See, raising goose requires a wide area in order to carry out breeding and rearing processes. For a starter flock of twenty geese, an acre sounds just right. If you can raise geese somewhere with a grass field as well as a stream or a pond, all the better for your geese's food and water needs. A stream or a pond, which are perfect for swimming around on hot days, can also provide your geese with the enjoyment they need. If you would like to learn more about raising goose, please visit: http://www.howtoraisegeese.com Article Source: EzineArticles

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Great MACAWS Are Not Born, They Are Made

Photo by Tambako the Jaguar

Many questions are asked by people considering a Blue And Gold Macaw as a pet.

1. Will my bird do things I find attractive?
2. Will he be loving, talkative, intelligent, affectionate, playful?
3. How about my kid and all the other family members? Will a Macaw be likely to get along with them?
4. Will I be able to train a Macaw?
5. How difficult is it to teach a Macaw to talk?
6. Will a Macaw be friendly to other people or just me and my family? Will he become attached to only myself?
7. How do I avoid my Macaw becoming a biter?

The simplest answer to all these questions of Macaws will come down to this. If you properly socialize a Macaw all things are possible. It is mostly up to us as owners and caregivers to be sure our Macaw meets not only our own expectations but his maximum capabilities.

Other than the actual physical care of each bird, food, living conditions, living space, and exercise. Socialization may the most important word when talking about Macaw parrots or any parrot for the matter.

The Macaw cannot socialize himself. If you believe it takes a village to raise a child. Then it takes a state to socialize a Macaw. It takes a dedicated state of mind at the very least.

If you intend to buy a baby Macaw Blue And Gold or any large Macaw. It is highly recommended for everyone to do business with a trusted breeder if at all possible. Breeders begin for us the entire socialization process. Around the sixteenth day after hatching most breeders begin hand feeding.

A baby Macaws eyes open about the nineteenth day of life. The importance of recognizing humans as the source of food, care, affection along with fun and entertainment cannot be overstated. We have an advantage if humans are perceived as all important and pleasurable to a Macaw.

Before purchasing a Macaw it is extremely important to understand. Macaws and parrots, in general, are not domesticated animals as are dogs and cats. Humans through their actions hand feeding, comfort, and care simply are associated with mom and dad then become members of the bird's flock.

The beginning processes of the breeders get us off on the right foot. However, it is extremely important that the process is continued and expanded consistently by new owners. The socialization process of a Macaw is a lifetime commitment and should not ever be discontinued.

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As important as constant care and handling by all family members and including friends truly is. Socialization also includes an introduction to new and different places and new situations.

Often unfamiliar situations and locations are the cause of an upset or frightened bird. Subjecting a Macaw to different locations and situations early in life is every bit as important to you and the bird as is constant handling.

Macaws can be upset and frightened easily. The gentlest Macaw upset or frightened can be a real handful to deal with. As the owner of a Macaw, it is a must that your bird trusts you in any and all locations and any situation.

Exactly how your Macaw or parrot turns out is more up to you than it is the bird. Remember both good behavior and bad behavior are learned. Most of what is learned will be up to you.

By Ryleigh Cantrell - Article Source: EzineArticles

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A Few Good Species of LOVEBIRDS Kept in our Homes as Pets

Lovebirds - Photo by Nita J Y

Lovebirds are intelligent birds that kept as pets in most homes. If we ask a person what a lovebird is, then the most common answer you are likely to get is that. Lovebirds are friendly, energetic birds from the parrot family which is kept as pets by many people. These birds are tiny that look like the parrots. However, these birds come in many different colors. Their faces are big with strong beaks and the color of the face is generally brighter than the rest of the body. There are many different kinds of species and their color also varies accordingly. Most often, young lovebirds have a black band on top of their bill and this fades away as they grow older.

Lovebirds belong to the genus called the Agapornis, which is derived from the Greek word ‘agape’ which means love and ‘ornis’ means bird. There are nine kinds of species in love birds and all of these belong to the native of Africa, except one. The Grey-headed lovebird is the only one which comes from the island of Madagascar. The black-collared lovebird is the only forest-dwelling bird. Apart from this, all the other kinds live near the equator in the dry Savannah regions. The lovebirds like most birds also live in flocks that range from a few to more than eight hundred birds. Larger flocks are formed around areas where there are food and water available during the dry seasons. They eat a wide range of foods from the wind like leaves, fruits, nuts, twigs, seeds, and occasionally insects and small animals as well.

Out of the nine species three of them are kept as pets. However, it is very difficult to differentiate male and female in this species. However, both of them can make up to be very good pets. Three species which can be kept in our homes are Fishers Lovebird, Masked Lovebird, and Peach-Faced Lovebird. The Fishers Lovebird has a bright white circle round his eye making him one of the ‘eye ring’ species. His wings are dark green in color although he has a light green color body. Its beak is orangey red in color with a piercing voice.

The Masked Lovebird is also one of the ‘eye ring’ species. It has a black color face and head making it look like a mask. The body and wings are green in color while its chest and neck are yellow. This is a very playful and affectionate pet for many. The peach-faced lovebird is the most commonly kept lovebird. It has green wings with a blue color on edges of its feathers and tail. The color of the face and neck are a variant peach to pink color and a pale pinkish tan beak. This bird is also an energetic and devoted lovebird.

However, there is a wide variety of lovebirds found by the pet industry and from the breeders. Some of them are Abyssinian Lovebird, Albino Lovebird, Black Masked Lovebird, Dutch Blue Lovebird, Fischer’s Lovebird, Lutino Lovebird and Peach-faced Lovebird. The breeders also provide guidelines and best ways to keep your birds healthy. Also, today you find different kinds of housing facilities available for your birds depending on the space required.  These are also named differently like a bird cage, bird perch, bird hide or nest box, Aviary. My friend Cody has an Aviary just in front of his house where he breeds about 50 lovebirds. He spends most of his day with them. When I tried entering into it, an alarm went off and discovered that he had attached the birds' nest to the ADT Security Systems installed in his house. I was very Inspired by the varieties of lovebirds that Cody had in his aviary.

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BIRD BREEDS and their Care

Two Rose-ringed Parakeets (also known as the Ring-necked Parakeet) at Canberra Walk In Aviary, (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

So you've decided to get a bird as a pet. Here is a guideline for different breeds, how to care and general characteristics to get you familiarized with your new pet.

Finches - the popular breeds are gray singing, green singing, society finch, and zebra finch. Cages should be a box-type or they can be kept in an aviary. They need perches and some might need baths.
The regular size of such cages ranges 20x10x12 inches. Some finches are good singers, and many have fine markings and beautiful color combinations. Popular breeds are relatively inexpensive.

Canaries - the popular breeds are: roller, more glost, border canary, red-factor canary and other smaller varieties. They need perches and bath in their cages which range in sizes 20x14x16 inches. These birds can range from the inexpensive to the expensive. Good cage birds can be kept in an aviary with other seed-eating species, even some softbills. They are brightly colored, sweet singers (if male, though some hens sing a little).

Soft-billed birds (non-seed eating) - One such soft-billed bird is the Pekin robin. It can be housed alone or in pairs in an indoor cage - 30x18x26 inches. These birds are strong, lively and strong singers (particularly males). They have beautiful plumage, couples are quite affectionate and they need water daily.

Shama is another soft-billed bird that can be housed alone or in pairs in an aviary. It must stay indoors in winter. They tend to mimic everything from rusty gate to a nightingale. They can be quite exuberant.

The Golden-fronted leafbird is another soft-billed bird that can be kept in a cage or aviary with other smaller species. Cage sizes tend to range in 32x20x24 inches. The males sing sweetly. They are brightly colored and easily tamed.

Parrots - The Budgerigar (small species of parrots) can stay in cage size 24x12x16 inches with horizontal wire. They may also house in an aviary. Spray the cage on warm days with a mist sprayer. They come in many colors and can learn words if taught young. They are affectionate, sometimes noisy and relatively inexpensive.

The Lovebird is another breed of parrots that can stay in a cage size 23x12x16 inches with horizontal wire. They are affectionate if hand-reared. They come in many colors and are relatively inexpensive.

The South American parakeets (concur, Aratinga etc.) and Asiatic parakeets can stay in a cage 47x36x36 inches. They are curious and beautifully colored and quite noisy.

Australian parakeets can stay in cages 47x36x36 inches. They can be aggressive and good pets only if hand-reared. They can also be kept in an aviary with other parakeet species and finches.

The Lory and Lorikeet need nectar mixture, fruits, and honey. They are beautifully colored and affectionate. Cage sizes can be 47x36x36 inches like the Australian parakeets.

The African gray parrot is a good talker and can mimic quite well. They are capricious and feather pickers. Cage sizes should be 59x59x63 inches.

The Amazon Parrot should have a cage as big as the African gray parrot. They are also good talkers and mimic others well. They need space but can be quite hard to breed.

By Kiya Sama - Article Source: EzineArticles

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How To Train RACING PIGEONS

Pigeons have an uncanny homing instinct. In fact, they were used as mail carriers as far back as 5000 years ago. In the early 1800's, a sport has been developed using these magnificent creatures as racing animals. The pigeon's disposition to fly home even after long flights has made the sport a favorite hobby among pigeon lovers. Pigeon racing competitions abound all over the world, with most of them involving big money.

Being a successful pigeon racer requires discipline, constant care and a penchant eye for detail. Here are some important tips that will help you become a winner in this sport:

1. Set up a loft in your backyard and ensure that the pigeon is basket trained as soon as it learns how to fly. Pigeons have a deep sense of home. Once they recognize the loft as their humble abode, they will be attached to it for life. Despite long flights, a pigeon has a specialized mechanism that allows them to track the coordinates and be able to fly back to their home. 

2. Observe proper feeding as you raise the pigeons. It's also very important that the pigeons be fed at home in order for them to get attached to their loft. Doing this can increase the motivation of your pigeons to fly home as quickly as possible and as a result improve your chances of winning the competitions. 

3. Set up a training loft and always keep it open during training sessions. Also, ensure that there's sufficient space for the pigeons to enhance their flight skills. Everything else comes easy once this is done since the bird themselves are always eager to flex their flight muscles. Remember that the loft they were raised in is not the same as the training loft, but it's completely acceptable to set a single loft that can serve as both.

4. A pigeon trap can be set up to enable the owner to record behavioral patterns and tally the amount of time a pigeon takes to fly home. Placing treats inside the pigeon trap will also encourage the pigeons to always return to it. This should make training much easier.

5. As with the pigeon trap, treats can be used in training the pigeons to enter the release basket. This basket is where the pigeons are placed and released at the start of a racing competition. 

6. This is where the training proper starts, not to mention that it's the fun part. Train your racing pigeons to fly home from a long distance by placing them at a definite spot. Just make sure to make an estimate of the distance before doing this since it's recommendable that you tally a graphical data in order to monitor performance and trends. The first training usually sets the distance from the home at a mile or two. 

7. Increase the distance from home at reasonable increments during the course of the training program. At its peak, a racing pigeon should be able to fly home efficiently at a distance of 20 miles or more.

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Fact Sheet: GOULDIAN FINCH - Erythrura gouldiae

(Original Title: GOULDIAN FINCHES - Nature's Brilliant Rainbows)

Photo  by _paVan_ 

Introduction

The Gouldian Finch is one of the most colorful species of birds in the world. Gouldians originate from the tropical region of northern Australia. In the late 19th century, Gouldian Finches, also known as Lady Gouldian Finches, were exported to Great Britain where they were enthusiastically received. In 1960, Australia prohibited the exportation of these birds.

Description

Gouldian's plumage appears almost artificially brilliant such that their coloration seems unnatural. As with many species of birds, the plumage of the male Gouldian is more striking than that of the female. Gouldian finches are one of the easiest birds to sex, as each gender has a distinct pattern of feather colors. Additionally, the center tail feather of the male is longer than that of the female.

Juveniles also have quite distinctive colors and are naked and pink until they are about 12 days old. Interestingly, the beaks of young Gouldians have a phosphorescent blue bead on either side that allows their parents to see them in the dark.

There are three naturally occurring varieties of Gouldians - the black-crested, the red-crested, and the yellow-crested. In addition to the commonly recognized color varieties, there are a number of color sub-variants including blue and yellow-bodied mutations.

Behavior

All finches are social and Gouldians are no exception. They should be housed in one or more pairs to keep them emotionally healthy. Gouldian finches require a higher level of care than that their more laid back and hardier cousins, the Zebra Finch and Society Finch.

All finches are diurnal, which means they are active in the daytime. Offer your pet birds at least 8 hours of exposure to sunlight to provide them with essential vitamin D. In warm weather, put the cage outside as a special treat. And like all finches, Gouldian finches resist finger-taming or petting.

Feeding

Lady Gouldian finches require more vitamins, nutrients, and supplements in captivity than heartier finch breeds such as the Zebra and Society Finches. Diet consists of varieties of seeds, live food, and rock salt.These birds also require a good amount of protein and calcium, especially in breeding season. Mealworms and eggs are a good source of protein and can be kept in a feeding cup separate from that of their seed bowl. A second separate cup can be kept containing greens like lettuce and celery. As with all finches, grit is not needed, but calcium-rich cuttlebone is a must.

Cages and Aviaries

Gouldian finches are around five inches in size, but they need twenty inches minimum of horizontal flying space. The spacing between bars should not be over 1/2 inch in order to thwart escape attempts and reduce the chance of injury. These birds are well suited for either metal or wooden cages. But do not house your finches in brass cages. Brass is toxic to finches!

All finches enjoy bathing, and if given the opportunity will bathe up to three times a day. Place a small open dish of water in the bottom of their cage to help the birds maintain their skin and feathers.

Gouldians need warmth. The ideal indoor temperature for these birds is 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can cause serious illness and even death.

Health Issues

Unlike hardier species of finches, frequent stress to Gouldians can weaken their resistance to disease. These birds are creatures of habit. When change is forced upon them they will become stressed and anxious. For instance, frequent cage movement can be very disruptive to them.

Two of the most prevalent health problems with Gouldians are air sac mites and Egg Binding.

Egg Binding is a serious problem that affects the female. Eggs get stuck in the birthing canal and the bird is unable to pass it. Symptoms include loss of appetite, weakness and sitting at the bottom of the cage. Egg Binding requires immediate attention.

Air sac mite infestation is a respiratory ailment that makes it difficult for the finch to properly breathe. This can lead to more serious illness and should be immediately treated by a veterinarian.

Streptococcus is another common finch disease. This illness is caused by a wound infection that did not heal properly. Symptoms of this disease include panting, listlessness, fluffing, weight loss and, in severe cases, seizures. Streptococcus is curable when treated at first at first sign of illness.

Breeding

Gouldian finches are somewhat difficult to breed and prefer a nest box placed in a breeding pair cage as opposed to nesting in their regular cage.

These birds breed and nest during the wintertime, so indoor heated housing is a must. As breeding season approaches, the tip of the male's beak will turn a bright cherry red. The pair produces four to six eggs during each mating cycle. One egg is laid per day.

Newly hatched chicks are pink and featherless until about 12 days old when the beginnings of feathers start to appear. Fledglings leave the nest at 3 weeks.

Female finches don't always stand by their man. Given the opportunity, they'll indulge in a promiscuous tryst with other males. This infidelity is not merely cold-hearted cheating. It's an evolutionary strategy that encourages dominant males to pass on their genes.

Conclusion

Gouldians have gorgeous plumage. Because of their brilliant feathers, they actually give the appearance of being artificial.

Though Gouldian Finches are officially listed as an endangered bird in Australia, they can be readily be purchased in Europe and North America. These birds are most comfortable in a stable housing environment with a minimum of cage movement to avoid stress.

It's recommended that prospective finch owners with little or no experience in finch care consider those hardier breeds such as the Society Finch or Zebra Finch over that of the Gouldian Finch.

Although the care of Gouldians is more involved than that of other finch species, enjoyment of their vibrant colors, quirky personalities, and bouncy energy makes a rewarding return on your investment in their welfare.

By Daniel P. Ransom Daniel P. Ransom is a finch expert and enthusiast with over 20 years experience keeping and breeding many varieties of finches. He supplies local and regional pet shops and aviaries with healthy and happy finches. Article Source: EzineArticles

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• Fact Sheet: ZEBRA FINCH - Taeniopygia guttata(wecappbah.tumblr.com)

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The Amazing Characteristics of FALCONS

Peregrine Falcon, (Red-capped Falcon)
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Falcons are amazing predators and in my opinion the most spectacular aerial predator in the world. They are not the strongest amongst birds of prey, but their hunting tactics are truly remarkable. There is a reason that fighter jets are designed after falcons. It is not just the amazing speed, but also the way they are able to turn at g-forces that would kill a human being.

There are many types of falcons throughout the world and North America. The most commonly found in North America are the Prairie Falcon, American Kestrel, Merlin, Gyr Falcon, and the infamous Peregrine Falcon. Kestrels hunt in a different fashion and do not use diving techniques. The Peregrine is the most well known for its speed and hunting ability. In my opinion, the Gyrfalcon, although larger is as fast as the peregrine.

Falcons mainly prey upon other birds, such as ducks, pigeons, grouse, etc... They fly high in the sky far above their prey and when ready to pursue, go into an incredible dive. In the dive, they turn in a corkscrew fashion after their prey. Even though the fastest way from one point to the other is a straight line, the falcon dives in this way to keep its eye on its prey. The reason is their eyes are placed more on the side of their head, instead of looking straight forward like humans. They have long narrow wings built for speed and a long narrow tail built for amazing turning capability. They strike their prey at incredible speeds in mid-air, sometimes the one strike is all it takes to kill. If not the falcon will gain altitude again quickly and strike again and again. They are also well known for chasing their prey down after the initial strike. They sometimes hit with their feet and talons open and sometimes with their feet closed making a fist. Either way is enough to make a lethal blow to its prey.

The Peregrine Falcon has been documented diving at speeds at 232mph. This 2-pound bird has been known to take prey as large as a 9-pound sage grouse, the largest game bird in North America. In the falconry world, falconers breed falcons for hunting purposes. The popular Falcon to breed is a hybrid, a bird that is half peregrine and half Gyrfalcon. Many falconers like to use male birds because of their tenacity, the problem is the males are smaller than females and are not large enough to take down the popular sage grouse. This hybrid bird is perfect for sage grouse hunting, they get the large size from the Gyrfalcon and the tenacity from the peregrine falcon. These hybrids are usually the size of a female peregrine but have the personality of a male.

The peregrine falcon seemed to be doomed to extinction because of a chemical pesticide, called DDT that farmers used on their crops. Finally, the US banned DDT and since then the peregrine, along with many other species of birds have made a full recovery. The peregrine is common and will even build their nests on ledges of a giant building that resemble a cliff in big cities. Watch high in the sky for this amazing predator that is truly the jet fighter of the bird world.

By Shawn G. Smith  - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Fact Sheet: ZEBRA FINCH - Taeniopygia guttata

(Original Title: Zebra Finches-Fiesty Birds With a Perky Attitude!)

Photo  by Prab Bhatia Photography 

Introduction

Zebra finches are classified as the smallest of the pet birds available on the market. Originating from the continent of Australia, they are also found in Indonesia, Central, and North America. With their attractive plumage and ease of maintenance, they are highly prized as pets. They are relatively hardy birds which can be kept indoors as well as in outdoor aviaries.

They have been a popular pet bird for over 100 years. They are an ideal choice for any bird enthusiast or anyone looking for a pet. Zebra Finches can live up to 10 years with good nutrition and care.

Description

Zebra finches come in several patterns and colors. They vary in color according to their breed. Typically, the male sports a gray-hued body and wings, while his underside is off-white. The beak and legs are a red-orange color. There are cheek patches on his head and a tear-dropped shaped mark under the eyes. There is a chestnut brown white dotted coloration below the wings. And finally, the male has a black and white striped chest which gives the species its' common name.

The female boasts a gray-hued body and wings along with the off-white underside. The beak is one shade of orange lighter than that of the male. The major difference in appearance between male and female is that the male displays the cheek patches while the female does not. Both females and males have red eyes and their feet are a combination of orange and yellow.

Behavior

Zebra finches are active birds, able to entertain themselves. They have soft, pleasing vocalizations consisting of chirping and peeping. They are flock birds and do best when a number of pairs are housed together. They are usually sold in pairs and need to be maintained as pairs for their emotional well-being.

Zebra finches are messy and voracious eaters, typically dropping seed everywhere. They are feisty little critters with a perky attitude. Zebra finches are crazy about canary tassel toys!

Like all finches, Zebra finches are cautious with humans and don't enjoy being touched. These birds do not become finger tame, though they do come to enjoy the interaction with their owners over time. However, some owners attest to bird's ability to learn to become at ease with a human touch. As social animals, they do require the company of other compatible birds to stay emotionally healthy.

Cages and Aviaries

Zebra finches are relatively hardy birds that can be kept indoors, or in outdoor aviaries. Experts advise owners to house their finches in the largest cage affordable. Zebra finches do well in a mixed aviary. However, they don't mix well with all species of finches.

Feeding

All finches are mostly seed eaters. Finch owners have assumed that their birds need grit similar to other bird species. However, finches do not require grit. Give your birds daily fresh water. Finches can die within 24 hours without water. Supplement their diet of seeds with greens and fruit-but don't overdo it! Supply a calcium supplement, especially during mating season. Cooked eggshells make a good substitute for cuttlebone.

Health

Zebra finches are usually quite healthy, but not quite as hardy as larger pet birds,

They are very susceptible to airborne toxins. Also, they can catch colds from drafts. Therefore, they need to be housed clear of windows and doors in order to stay healthy. They will do well in temperatures down to around 40 F.

Breeding

Zebra finches easily breed in captivity. Zebras breed colonially and are socially monogamous, in many cases maintaining permanent pair bonds. The male helps in the nest building as well as hatching duties and feeding the young. Zebra finches can lay a maximum of eight eggs, but usually have 2 to 5 eggs in their nests. Zebra Finches will lay one egg every other day until their clutch is complete.

After egg laying, it's the hen that will spend most of her time on the nest. The male will from time to time, relieve her for food and exercise breaks. The eggs will begin to hatch 12 to 18 days after they have been laid.

Breeding zebra finches in pair cages are ideal. However, they will breed in aviaries. During mating season the birds require up to 16 hours of daily sunlight. If there is no window in the area where the cage is located, supply an artificial source of light with a timer.

Conclusion

Zebra finches are arguably the most popular and commonly kept Australian finch species. Zebra finches are some of the easiest pet birds to keep and can make excellent companions for people where noise and space is a concern. With good nutrition and care, these birds can live up to 10 years. They are considered one of my favorite of all finch varieties.

By Daniel P. Ransom Daniel P. Ransom is a finch expert. He has been raising and breeding many varieties of finches for over 20 years. He supplies local and regional pet shops with happy and healthy birds. Article Source: EzineArticles

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The Several Different Breeds of BANTAM CHICKENS

A bantam rooster (breed unknown)
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

To better understand the numerous types and kinds of bantam chickens, we need to understand the actual definition of the word. When used in relation to fowl or chickens, Bantam is used for any extremely small fowl. The way most people have understood this rating is my understanding that for most of the regular breeds of chickens there are some bantam counterparts. These are most often one-fourth to one-fifth the size of the standard chickens, thus earning them the addition of miniature or bantam to their original name.

When taking into consideration the original namesake of bantam, this chicken or fowl has no standard counterpart. The most popular and commonly known bantam chickens are the Dutch bantam, the Sebright bantam, the Japanese bantam and the Dutch bantam. Due in part to their size and ease of care, bantams have rapidly risen to the top of the list as pets used primarily for shows or competitions. Because of their size, they require far less food, space, and maintenance resulting in their previously mentioned status as preferred pets.

Some of the most widely known breeds of bantam chickens are the Cochin, Japanese Bantams, common Bantam, Barnevelder, Old English Game, Polish chicken, D'Uccle, Pekin, Serama and the Sussex bantams. The following are brief descriptions of them:

The Cochin bantam is one of the largest breeds of bantams with the male known for weighing in at a surprising 5 Kg. (11 pounds). This particular bantam breed was introduced in China as the Chinese Shanghai and later exported to America and Britain. Another Bantam breed closely related and developed from this breed is the Pekin bantam.

Japanese bantams most commonly referred to as Chao, are literally spread worldwide. These chickens are mostly used in shows and as pets.

Barnevelder bantam is among the most popular breed of chickens for shows, carcass, and egg production. Producing rich brown eggs is their speciality and they are natural foragers on top of being a medium heavy breed which makes them excellent for either gaming or food.

Pekin bantam female. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Old English Game bantams also make excellent pets for children and are a source of special shows in the United Kingdom for this specific popular breed. This bantam breed is almost opposite to its standard counterpart, the Old English Game chicken in that it lacks an aggressive nature.

The Polish chicken has primarily bred for their show abilities due to the fact their appearance is almost beautiful. Boasting such colours as pink, purple, and blue, these bantams do not sit on eggs but produce stark, white eggs.

Uccle is a town on the outskirts of Brussels, Belgium and is the namesake of the Barbu D'Uccle bantam with soft feathers. This chicken received its name from the French, translating as Bearded of Uccle.

The Pekin bantam, sporting feathers on their legs and feet combined with plumage that hangs to the ground, has often been referred to as a "walking tea-cosy". Noticeably smaller, measuring in at 20 - 30 centimetres and are well known for their mothering instincts.

The Serama bantam breed of chickens is basically still in production. Although they are currently ranked as the smallest chickens in the world, their breed has not been bred true as of yet, meaning breeding them could result in any colour, shape, size, etc.

The Sussex bantam is one-quarter the size of its standard counterpart, better known as the most common of backyard chickens in different countries around the world.

By Timothy Allan Crane - Article Source: EzineArticles

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