Finches are popular caged birds, well known for their vibrant hues and patterns. Some species, such as the zebra finch and the society finch reproduce easily in captivity. Baby finches should receive adequate food from their parents. If their parents are absent, however, baby finches require hand-feeding. Hand-feeding baby finches is challenging and time-consuming and, unfortunately, is not always successful.
Feeding Baby Finches
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Feed chicks using a mixture of water or infant electrolyte solution that has been prepared for that feeding. For the first days of their lives, this mixture should consist primarily of the electrolyte solution. Gradually use less electrolyte solution until the formula is the consistency of pudding. Infant applesauce can be added to the formula if the chicks are having difficult eliminating waste. The chicks can eat seeds and millet spray when the chicks are fully feathered and after their beaks have become more rigid.
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Hygiene and Safety Issues
Hand washing and clean utensils are vital when feeding finch chicks. Never share utensils between chicks; each chick should have his or her own pipette or syringe. Throw away all leftover solution after all the chicks have been fed. Unfortunately, abandoned baby finches have only a slight chance of surviving more than a few days, even when hand-fed. Consult your avian veterinarian or a small animal veterinarian experienced in treating birds before starting to feed any orphaned or abandoned chicks.