Information provided by the Northern Bengalese Exhibitors Association.
Further enquiries and membership details from:  Mr P Hill. 111 Malvern Cres. Brankstone, Darlington, Co. Durham, DL3 9UF

What is a BENGALESE FINCH and where does it come from?

The Bengalese Finch is a seed-eating finch and is not found wild anywhere in the world. It is believed to have been created in China many years ago.

What is its basic diet?

Mixed millet, fine grit and water.

What other seeds and foods should be provided?

Canary seed, niger, millet sprays, paddy rice and cuttlefish bone.

Is it necessary to provide soft food?

Soft food may be given all year round but mainly in the breeding season as a rearing food. Canary rearing food is popular. Soaked seed and soaked oats are also acceptable.

How should Bengalese be housed?

Outside flights with dry sleeping quarters or inside flights or cages. Bengalese appear to be much happier in cages than open flights.

Is the Bengalese Finch hardy and is heat required?

Yes, the Bengalese Finch is hardy and will stand the coldest weather. Most fanciers do provide some sort of heat to keep the birdroom just above freezing. Light must be provided if one wishes to breed early to compensate for the long hours of darkness.

Does the Bengalese Finch like to bathe?

Yes, very much so. Fresh water should be provided daily where possible.

What are the best perches for Bengalese Finches?

Natural, twiggy perches of varying diameter are best.

Which is the best cage floor covering for Bengalese Finches?

There are many kinds - clean sawdust, wood shavings and fine sand. Newspaper is very popular, many sheets can be placed in the cage and the top one removed every other day.

Will Bengalese Finches breed in flights?

Yes, but in order to be sure of colour and exhibition standards, most Bengalese Finches are now bred in cages.

What size cage is suitable for breeding?

24” x 16” x 12” deep is recommended size.

What size nest box is required?

The best size nest box for Bengalese Finches is 5” x 5” x 5” with a hinged lid for inspection. The front should be made so that the birds can get in and out and have a small perch at the opening.

What is the best nesting material and where should it be put?

The nest box should be half filled with hay, soft grasses. Some nesting material should be placed in the cage for the birds to complete building the nest.

How many eggs does a Bengalese Finch lay?

The average clutch is five eggs—but they can lay as many as eight eggs.

How long do Bengalese Finch eggs take to hatch?

Normally fourteen days from the last egg laid.

When is the best time to close ring Bengalese?

Between 8 - 10 days after hatching. It’s quite easy, just place the front three toes in the ring and then gently slide the ring over the back one.

When should young Bengalese Finches be taken away from their parents?

Between 35 - 40 days, if they are definitely self feeding.

How old should Bengalese Finches be for breeding?

Cocks at least ten months, but it is better if the hens are at least twelve months.

Should cocks and hens be parted when not breeding?

It is not necessary. You can split ring cocks for easy identification if housed in large cages or flights.