Combining different types

[diinin]

Hi guys. I'm new at this, as you will soon be able to tell by my ignorance.

We are considering getting finches. We all like different types, though. Between the three of us, we like the society, spice, orange-cheeked, owl, white-headed mannikin, and silverbill. And that's a narrowed-down list. (I love the strawberry, but will probably not get those).

Can these species be mixed? Most of them have said "mixes well" on some website I was perusing.

Also, is it necessary to get a pair of each type, or can singles be combined and become buddies? I asked a breeder and he said they prefer to pair with their own, but will be okay as singles kept together. Another big breeder (Singing Wings, I think) only sells in pairs for the most part--male and female, I assume. Which would be a bit of a problem, because we do NOT want babies. I think we'll only be able to do 4 finches, given the size cages we're looking at, so if they have to be kept in pairs of each type, we'll have to narrow down to two types. (Not sure I'm even using the right words here--type? species?).

Thanks for your help!

[L in Ontario]

Hi Diinin - over on the left side of your screen is a link to the Finch Information Center. It is absolutely LOADED with information on all kinds of finches and it has a compatibility chart showing which finches are passive and can be housed with similar finches. have a look through it - I'm sure you'll find it VERY informative and interesting!

[diinin]

Ahhh, yes, the FinchInfo site. That was one of the ones I was using, and fortunately, all the species we like are listed under "passive." The pictures on that site are wonderful. I'm glad you mentioned it again, because I have so many sites written down, and hadn't marked the ones that were especially helpful.

Now I just need to figure out if one of each (we'll have to narrow down further) will work, or if they need a buddy of their own type.

And THEN, I have to convince my husband!

[L in Ontario]

To make it quick and easy for you - no, I don't believe they "need" a buddy of their own species. I believe they will get along fine with a buddy of another passive type. Happy finch shopping!

[franny]

I agree. If you like variety, then get one of each, preferably all males. This way you avoid the problem of egg binding, plus you get to enjoy their songs. With all passive finches, and a large enough cage, they will get along, and it will make for an interesting flock of birds.

Most breeders will sell individuals - after all, sometimes you just need to buy one, to replace a lost mate, so I can't imagine them refusing to sell you just one of a species! As long as they know you don't intend to keep the bird alone, that it will have buddies, they should not have a problem with that. If they won't then go elsewhere!