Can a Diamond Dove be housed with a Canary?

Question

I'm considering purchasing a Diamond Dove to keep my male Canary company. I have heard that these two species can be housed together and get along well. Is that true? (If it does work, I plan on housing the birds separately to quarantine the new one and allow them to get used to each other). I've also heard that Canaries are very social, but best housed individually? I've been thinking for quite a while about getting another bird (possibly a parakeet, finch, canary or dove) to live in the same room as the Canary but in a separate cage so they can 'talk' to each other. I considered buying a female Canary to house with my male Canary, but it sounds like overbreeding could be a problem. He is very shy toward humans and seems terrified every time I open his cage to feed him, despite the fact that I've had him for about 3 years. He doesn't seem to appreciate human attention, so what is the best option to keep him happy? Since they are so social, it seems like they wouldn't enjoy life alone.

Answer 1

As a person who has housed budgies with cockatiels, I would say both are a calm species.  However, my birds' size was equal whereas your birds' size is not at all equal.  One may look at that as an opportunity for aggression.

If possible, place two cages against each other so the birds can spend a couple of weeks looking at each other through the cages' bars...

Personally, I wouldn't risk the canary's life for this but that's my opinion.  I would sooner have two fancy cages, one for each bird, then both in one cage.  In the same room chirping back and forth will offer both plenty of company.  Too risky otherwise...

Answer 2

Yes diamond doves are generally considered safe to house with canaries and finches.   Assuming the cages is large enough to house both species.    You are also correct 2 males should not be housed togahter.   However you can house with a female.  If you do not want them to breed simply do not provide nests and/or remove any eggs that are layed.