© NEWSchr / CC BY-SA 4.0Frilled Canary
The Frilled Canary is a group of canary varieties known for distinctive "frilled" feathering—wavy, curled plumes across the chest, flanks, and back. The flagship variety, the Parisian Frill, is large by canary standards, with a standard length of 19cm or more, and is prized for its elegant, flowing plumage. However, keeping, feeding, and breeding it all demand a high level of skill, and its curled feathers shed water poorly and get dirty easily, so regular chances to bathe and a clean environment are essential. It is a breed best suited to advanced keepers. With a lifespan of around 10 years, prospective owners should be ready for a long-term commitment.
View Frilled Canary encyclopedia →Breeder Wanted!
List on BreederDirect and sell directly to customers nationwide!
BreederDirect's 6 Transparency Commitments
All Birds listings include complete Breeder transparency: hand-raised status, DNA sex determination, and health certification details.
- Hand-Raised
- DNA Sex-Determined
- Health Certified
- Origin Disclosed
- Color Variation Specified
- Age in Months Disclosed
Browse all 286 breeds
Care Level
No listings match your filters
Adjust your filters, or get notified when new listings arrive.
Getting alerts is free with a member account. When new listings match your saved search, we'll notify you by email and in-app.
Browse other categories
Verified breeders (preview)
Frilled Canary key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- Around 10 years
- Size
- At least 19cm (Parisian Frill standard)
- Diet
- Canary-seed-based mix, greens, cuttlebone or oyster grit
- Cage
- Outside the breeding season use a large flight cage or an aviary with a shelter. Do not overcrowd, and leave room for birds to avoid each other.
- Temperament
- Bored birds pluck their cage mates' feathers, so provide chewable perches and greens as distraction.
- Vocalization
- Less cultivated in song than the song breeds, but males sing clearly at modest volume.
- Notes
- Birds are fragile during the moult, when most losses occur. They are prone to red mite, so keep perches and cage scrupulously clean.
About Frilled Canary
Frilled Canary breeds feature wavy, curled "frill" plumage on the chest and back. The flagship Parisian Frill grows 19cm or more and suits advanced keepers only; lifespan is around 10 years.
7 things to know before welcoming a Frilled Canary
1For Experienced Keepers
The Frilled Canary's unique feather structure makes it unsuitable for first-time canary owners. It's best to gain experience with standard canary care before taking one on.
2A Larger-Bodied Bird
The flagship Parisian Frill reaches a standard length of 19cm or more, making it one of the larger canary varieties. Its cage needs to be sized accordingly.
3Dirty Plumage and Bathing
The curled feathers shed water poorly and get dirty easily, so provide regular chances to bathe and keep the environment clean. Check their feather condition regularly.
4Breeding Is Challenging
Breeding requires specialized knowledge and experience. Avoid casual breeding attempts and consult an experienced breeder instead.
5A Lifespan of About 10 Years
Frilled Canaries typically live around 10 years. Be prepared for a long-term commitment when welcoming one into your home.
6Care During the Molt
Birds are prone to illness during the molt, and losses are common in this period. Keep perches and the cage clean, and watch for red mites (feather mites).
7Research Before Bringing One Home
As a specialized variety, it's worth asking the breeder in detail about care requirements and individual temperament differences before making a decision.
Frequently asked questions about Frilled Canary
- Q.Can beginners keep a Frilled Canary?
- A.The Frilled Canary is considered a breed for experienced keepers, so it isn't ideal for someone new to canaries. It's best to build experience with standard canary care first before taking one on.
- Q.How big does a Frilled Canary get?
- A.The flagship Parisian Frill has a standard length of 19cm or more, making it one of the larger canary varieties.
- Q.How long do Frilled Canaries live?
- A.Their lifespan is typically around 10 years. Be prepared to care for them over the long term.
- Q.What should I watch for with the frilled plumage?
- A.The curled feathers shed water poorly and get dirty easily, so it's important to provide regular chances to bathe and keep the environment clean. Check their condition regularly and address any issues promptly.
- Q.Is breeding Frilled Canaries difficult?
- A.Breeding requires specialized knowledge and experience. First-timers should consult an experienced breeder.
Useful tools for Frilled Canary care
Learn more about Frilled Canary in the encyclopedia
View Frilled Canary encyclopedia entry →
Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
More in this category
Can't find the one you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and breeders with matching animals will contact you with introductions.