How to Set up a Cage for Finches

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Adequately-sized finch cage
Perches
Swings
Newspaper
Food and water bowls
Space near a window for the cage (or a bird cage light with timer)

Step 1:
Buy a finch cage large enough to accommodate the birds. Finches need a larger space than most new bird owners realize. They tend to have a high activity level that requires a large cage despite the small size of the birds. Working the flight muscles will keep the birds active and healthy. An average-sized cage (at least 30 inches in length) will work for one pair, but you need a larger cage for multiple pairs of finches.
Step 2:
Research the characteristics and behavior of the finch species you are planning to raise. Some finches fly horizontally, therefore the cage should be wider than cages used for other species.
Step 3:
Use a cage that contains bars spaced according to the size of your bird. Make sure the birds are unable to fit through the bars.
Step 4:
Set up perches within the cage. A pair of finches requires at least two perches. The perches should be mounted far enough apart to allow the birds to fly between them instead of merely hopping. Perches made of hard branches work well, but steer clear of cedar, redwood or pressed wood chips--these can be toxic to birds. It is also important to replace the perches if they're coated with droppings. Wood cannot be sterilized and can cause illness if it is not replaced regularly.
Step 5:
Consider adding swings to the cage. Finches seem to enjoy flying between swings during their bursts of energy.
Step 6:
Hang the perches and swings out of the flying path of the birds and away from their food and water containers. The birds can become injured if they fly into the objects and they can get seriously ill if fecal matter is mixed with their food.
Step 7:
Line the cage with shredded newspaper to catch fecal droppings.
Step 8:
Set up a food dish and water bowl (made of non-toxic plastic or stainless steel) in the cage. Consider placing the containers on opposite sides of the cage to encourage flying and adequate exercise.
Step 9:
Place the cage near a window, and open it if weather permits. Finches thrive when they have access to sunlight. However, make sure they have also have access to shade if the cage is placed directly in the sun. If you are unable to provide them with natural sunlight, get a bird light equipped with a timer to simulate day.

Tips & Warnings

Do not waste your money on interesting bird toys. Parrots may love the stimulation they provide, but finches usually pay them little attention.
Finches prefer darkness when they sleep, but avoid covering the cage with a large cloth because that will limit the amount of fresh air they receive.
Visit Petmarket to shop online for bird cages (see Resources below).
Avoid dowel perches, which can cause feet problems for your birds. Sandpaper-covered perches can also be harmful.

Resources

Petmarket to shop for cages online.

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