New red factor canary!!!!?

Question

I just received a new red factor canary as a birthday present. The only other birds I have owned were budgies in the past. The bird was in a cage with 3 other canaries at the pet store and was chirping quietly, but i wouldn't call it singing. Now, I've had it home for 2 days and have not heard a peep out of it. He seems happy, playful, and healthy. I whistle to him all the time, and it looks like he wants to respond, and opens his mouth but nothing comes out. It only worries me because he was chirping at the store. Should I be worried, or is he just getting used to his new surroundings?

Answer 1

Yeah, it'll take some time.  They are good-natured social creatures that do well when kept in cages or in aviaries. They are timid birds though and should not be housed with parakeets, lovebirds, or other hookbills that tend to be more aggressive birds by nature.  Male canaries should be kept in a cage by themselves to ensure quality singing.  Above all else, be sure to socialize him daily.  The relationship between you and your bird needs to be built up gradually.