Some birds may require special seeds, fruits, or vegetables, while others need large cages. All birds require social contact. The cost, care, and time commitment required to keep birds vary as much as individual characteristics such as color, size, personality, and life span. First-time bird owners should avoid the more expensive species. Finches, for example, are relatively easy to care for and may live only five to eight years.
Costs increase with traits and rarity.
The cost of a male canary, for example, may be twice that of a female because only males sing.