==== ==== Finches Birds: Finches as Pets http://ow.ly/8nyOG ==== ==== Finch Cages
Pet finches make lively, interesting, and cheerful companions. They are a pleasure to care for, and they make really great pets. In today's busy world, a finch bird is an ideal pet for someone who likes birds but doesn't have time for the social interaction that a bird like a parrot demands. But in order for them to be happy in our home, we as pet finch owners need to supply the right home for them. These small, beautiful and active birds need a cage that is at least two and a half feet in length. Finches are small birds, so the bars of the cage need to be close enough together to prevent injury to the birds or their escape. Finches are extremely active and get their exercise by flying so it is recommended that the cage provide enough room for that. There needs to be room enough for short flights. Many finch owners actually have two cages. One is used to place the birds in while they are cleaning the other cage. Several things need to be provided within the cage for the birds. Separate finch feeders for food and water should be in the cage at all times. There should also be extra dishes that can be placed in the cage for short periods of time for things like treats and grit. You will also need to offer the finches a small dish to bathe in several times a week. Finches will also appreciate a nest box to sleep in. Pet finches also need perches to rest on. Perches for the cage should be of various sizes in order to provide exercise for the birds feet. Cement perches are good for keeping the toe nails trimmed, but they should not be used exclusively as they can be hard on their feet. Some finch enthusiasts recommend using natural perches made from the branches of trees like elm, maple, pear, poplar, or cherry. In the bottom of the cage should be paper sprinkled with grit, or you can use a grit paper. As an option you can also attach a "bird protector" disk to the side of the cage in order to prevent mites. But this kind of accessory is completely optional. Another thing that finches will need are toys within the cage. Finches often like plastic rings and bells or other shiny objects for entertainment. There are many other toys for birds available in pet stores and retail outlets like swings, ladders, beads and mirrors. You can provide your birds with a couple of toys at a time and then change them often to keep things interesting. The cage should be cleaned at least once a week. Cleaning a cage is a fairy simple process that entails using hot, soapy water to thoroughly clean the cage and accessories. They then need to be rinsed and dried. For an easier time cleaning the cage, you can line the bottom of the cage with paper towels, newspaper or brown paper bags cut to size.
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