FINCHforum

Hi all, I have had several different finch varieties (a pair of BW Manikins, a pair of Blue Caps and a pair of Red Eared WBs) over the years but have found myself down on just one red eared waxbill for the last few months. I recently moved so adding any new birds was out of the question until we were settled and the terrible 2013/2014 winter (I am in NJ) was over. I have never had any problems with aggression or fighting among my birds & many lived for several years. Just before I moved I lost my beloved Bronzed Wing after 11 years. Anyway (just want to give you all a little history - i am clearly not an expert but have had some experience with variety), I am considering adding a canary to the cage and wanted to know what your opinions and/or advice would be. I have a 25" x 40" arch topped King's cage so it is not tiny but it is not an aviary. I am open to what type of canary would do best and have always gotten the BEST advice from all of you over the years so I came here first to see what you all think. I DO believe that the waxbill is a male but admittedly cannot be 100% sure. As you know, they are very difficult to sex but I got them as a pair and have always been confident that I knew the male from the female. I want him to have some company but want it to be as peaceful and happy as possible. Any advice would be apprecaited. Thanks!

Robin & Zeke

I would not add a canary to a cage that small with a red ear wb. Such a difference in size and behavior. Canaries can be housed in a single cage. Or you could add another waxbill.

Ok, that's enough to hear. It kinds of 'goes against my grain', so to speak, but have heard that it can be done so I threw the idea out there. I know blue caps, mannikins and green singers get along with the red ears, so I will go in that direction. Thanks for your input Deborah

Ok, that's enough to hear. It kinds of 'goes against my grain', so to speak, but have heard that it can be done so I threw the idea out there. I know blue caps, mannikins and green singers get along with the red ears, so I will go in that direction. Thanks for your input Deborah

i decided on an orange cheeked waxbill. they are already getting along well, as they tend to do (red ears and orange cheeks). they are such sweet little birds and are so sociable that i hated seeing him alone but it was SUCH a cold winter (in NJ, as well as most of the country!) and I was moving and hate to stress birds with that. So, at least he has a friend now