What to Know About Finches as Pets

Small, social, and delightfully active, finches make excellent pets—especially for bird lovers who enjoy watching rather than handling. With their soft chirps, vibrant colors, and flock-oriented personalities, finches are a great choice for households seeking low-maintenance companionship with plenty of visual charm. Here’s what to know before bringing these little birds into your home.

What Do Finches Look Like?

Finches are small, seed-eating birds with short, conical beaks. Most species measure just 4 to 6 inches long, making them one of the tiniest pet bird options. They come in a wide variety of colors and patterns depending on the species—zebra finches, for instance, are known for their bold face stripes and orange beaks, while society finches have soft brown-and-white plumage.
There are dozens of finch species in the world, but the ones most commonly kept as pets include:

• Zebra Finches
• Society (or Bengalese) Finches
• Gouldian Finches
• Canaries (which are technically finches!)

Are Finches Good for Beginners?

Yes! Finches are often recommended for first-time bird owners due to their gentle nature and minimal handling needs. They’re relatively easy to care for, quiet compared to parrots, and don’t require as much daily interaction. However, they do need proper housing, enrichment, and regular care like any other pet.

Finches are flock animals and should not be kept alone. A pair or small group of the same species (in a roomy cage) will thrive together and provide each other with companionship.

Diet Requirements of Finches

In the wild, finches eat a variety of seeds, greens, and small insects. In captivity, they thrive on a balanced diet that includes:

• A mix of pellets and/or seeds
• Fresh vegetables (like leafy greens, carrots, and broccoli)
• Small amounts of fruit
• Occasional egg food or protein sources—especially during breeding or molting
• Cuttlebone or mineral block for calcium

Always provide fresh, clean water daily and avoid offering avocado, chocolate, or other foods that are toxic to birds.

What Type of Cages Do Finches Need?

Since finches are flight-focused birds, horizontal space is key. They love to hop, flutter, and fly short distances, so a wide cage tends be better than a tall one. Choose a cage with:

• Narrow bar spacing (no more than ½ inch)
• Plenty of perches placed at different heights
• Space for multiple birds to move around comfortably
• A few safe toys, swings, or natural branches for enrichment

Line the bottom with paper for easy cleaning and place the cage in a quiet, draft-free spot with natural light.

How Much Human Interaction Do Finches Need?

Unlike parrots, finches typically don’t bond closely with humans or seek out physical affection. While some owners successfully hand-tame young finches, most prefer to be admired from a distance.

However, what finches do need is a flock—so keeping them in pairs or groups is beneficial for their social and emotional health. With two or more finches as pets, you can enjoy their gentle chatter, watch their lively interactions, and observe their natural behaviors without needing to handle them often.

Are Finches Noisy?

Finches are generally quiet compared to parrots, but they aren’t silent. Most chirp or sing throughout the day—particularly males, who may sing more often to attract mates. The sound is soft, pleasant, and unlikely to disturb neighbors, making finches ideal for apartment living.

How Long Do Finches Live?

With proper care, most pet finches live between five and ten years, though some species—such as canaries—may live a bit longer. A healthy diet, clean environment, and low-stress home will help ensure that your finches enjoy full, happy lives.

Are Pet Finches Right for You?

Finches offer a calm, low-maintenance entry into the world of pet birds. While they may not perch on your shoulder or learn to talk, they bring color, movement, and peaceful energy to your home. If you’re seeking a charming companion who thrives in the company of their own kind, finches might be the perfect fit.

Searching for the ideal avian companion to add to your home? Be sure to take our fun, interactive pet bird matchmaker quiz!