Breeds and species
Birds
Small pet birds that are not parrots – starting with the canary. Learn their needs for flight space, diet, light and company.
8 animals in this selection Each has a story.
Animal list
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Birds Canary
Beginner The canary (Serinus canaria forma domestica) is a domesticated songbird whose wild ancestor lives on the Canary Islands, Madeira and the Azores. Adults average… 6 – 15 yrsMini -
Birds Zebra Finch
BeginnerActive The zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) is a tiny songbird from the estrildid finch family, native to arid Australia. It measures 10 to 11 cm, weighs around 12 g… 5 – 9 yrsMini -
Birds Diamond Dove
Beginner The Diamond Dove (Geopelia cuneata) is a tiny dove native to the arid and semi-arid interior, west and north of Australia. It measures just 19 to 21 cm and wei… 10 – 20 yrsMini -
Birds Gouldian Finch
Active The Gouldian finch (Chloebia gouldiae) is a small estrildid finch native to northern Australia, measuring 12.5-14 cm and weighing just 13-16 grams, with a typi… 5 – 8 yrsMini -
Birds Society Finch (Bengalese Finch)
Beginner The society finch (Lonchura striata domestica) is a domesticated songbird from the estrildid finch family, shaped by centuries of selective breeding in East As… 5 – 10 yrsMini -
Birds Java Sparrow
Active The Java sparrow (Padda oryzivora) is a small estrildid finch native to the Indonesian islands of Java, Bali and Bawean. It measures 15-17 cm, weighs 20-25 g, … 7 – 10 yrsMini -
Birds Common Waxbill
Beginner The Common Waxbill (Estrilda astrild) is a tiny finch from sub-Saharan Africa and the first member of the genus Estrilda featured on Živalce.si. It measures 9.… 5 – 7 yrsMini -
Birds Ringneck Dove
Beginner The Ringneck Dove (Streptopelia risoria) is a fully domesticated dove, descended from the African collared dove of the Sahel and the Arabian Peninsula. It meas… 10 – 12 yrsSmall
Showing 8 of 8
All animals in this selection are shown.
Which bird should you choose?
Do not choose by appearance alone. Temperament, size, activity level and daily care needs matter just as much.
Think about how much time you can spend on grooming, training, play and companionship. Beginners often do best with breeds whose needs are clear and manageable.
Be careful with broad health claims: some breeds may be more prone to certain issues, so speak with a veterinarian or a responsible breeder.
Frequently asked questions
Is a canary suitable for beginners?
The canary is considered one of the less demanding birds, but it needs a roomy cage, fresh food and water every day and a calm home. It is not a cuddly pet – the joy lies in watching and listening.
How big should the cage be?
As large as possible and above all long, because birds fly horizontally. Flight space between perches matters more than height. Place the cage somewhere bright, away from draughts and direct sun.
Does a canary need company?
A canary is usually comfortable living alone in a cage, so a pair is not essential.