Both male and female canary chicks start learning their father’s song at an early age and go through three stages. Firstly, they listen and memorize the song during the sensory phase. Then, in the subsong phase, the male chicks try to imitate the song by babbling and warbling nonsensical sounds. Finally, with practice and persistence, they reach the song crystallization phase.
The difference between singing and warbling
When it comes to the singing behavior of male canary chicks, it’s important to distinguish between gargling and full-fledged singing. Initially, male chicks start to gargle at around three weeks of age, though it can be difficult to detect at this early stage. As they approach four weeks of age, the gargling becomes more apparent, and by six weeks old, it becomes more frequent. Over time, through a process of memorization and practice, the gargling will develop into full-fledged singing.
Song crystallization
Canary chicks continue to learn and practice singing until they fully master their song. Song crystallization usually begins around six months of age, but this can vary depending on the individual bird. By the time a male canary reaches eight months old, he typically fully matures and becomes a skilled singer.
It is important to note that during the breeding season, which typically occurs in the spring and lasts until mid-summer, the male canary enters a molting phase. During this time, he replaces his old feathers with new ones, which can affect his singing abilities. If you would like to learn more about canary molting, please refer to our article on the topic: Canary Molt.
Singing during molt
Male canaries usually undergo a molting phase during the breeding season in spring and early summer, where they replace their old feathers with new ones. During this period, their singing may decrease or stop altogether as it requires a lot of energy. However, this phase can also provide an opportunity for male canaries to learn and incorporate new notes and singing styles. Playing canary songs during this period and continuing afterward can help them to pick up new songs. As the molting period comes to an end, male canaries will gradually start singing again, incorporating their newly learned songs and styles.
The singing ability of females
Female canaries have the ability to gargle and sing, but they lack the same motivation as males to do so. Therefore, it can be challenging to distinguish between male and female canaries based on their singing alone. However, there are some behavioral differences in their singing that can aid in distinguishing them.
Typically, male canaries sing loudly, frequently, and continuously, whereas adult female canaries sing soft, simple, and less consistent songs. With practice and a trained ear, it is possible to differentiate between male and female canaries based on their singing patterns.
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