Kanarie

Kanarie, or canary (Serinus canaria), is a small passerine bird in the finch family. The wild canary is native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, while domesticated canaries are descended from this species and are widely kept as pet birds. In the wild, plumage tends toward olive-green with brown markings; domesticated varieties display a wide range of colors, especially bright yellows, whites, and variegated patterns.

Adults measure about 10 to 12 centimeters in length. They have a short, conical beak and a characteristic melodious song. Males often sing more vividly, and may be more brightly colored than females, which helps in courtship.

Habitat and behavior: in the wild, they inhabit open woodlands, scrub, and hedgerows. They are social birds, often seen in small flocks outside the breeding season. Diet consists mainly of seeds, supplemented by fruits and greens.

Breeding: pairs build cup-shaped nests in shrubs or trees. Clutches typically contain 4–6 eggs; incubation lasts around 13–14 days, and nestlings fledge about 14–18 days after hatching. Both parents participate in feeding the young.

In captivity: canaries require a spacious cage, good ventilation, perches of different sizes, and a seed-based diet enriched with greens and occasional fruit. They benefit from calcium and vitamin supplements and regular veterinary care. Canary color and song are products of selective breeding.

Conservation and use: the wild species is not considered endangered. The bird has a long history as a songbird in captivity and was historically used in mines to detect toxic gases due to its sensitivity to air quality.