This small bird called a canary is named after the Canary Islands and is a real symbol of this territory. It is known all over the world and often kept as a pet. Remember the cartoons about Tweety bird? Also a canary! These birds originate from the Canary Islands, Azores, and Madeira. Only in the Canary Islands is the population as high as 80,000-90,000 pairs. You can observe them nesting on Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, El Hierro, and Gran Canaria. Rarely one can even be seen on Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. The period of laying eggs is between January and July, depending on the territory but the peak season in most places is from April to June. Eggs are incubated for 13–14 days. Young birds leave the nest after 14–21 days.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit the Canary Islands for observing Atlantic Canary breeding?
The peak period for observing Atlantic Canary breeding is between April to June. This period is ideal for watching the hatching and fledging of young birds. The territory and seasons of egg-laying can vary, but most birds breed within the January to July period. Show more
Where can I observe Atlantic Canary breeding within the Canary Islands?
Atlantic Canary breeding happens on Tenerife, La Gomera, La Palma, El Hierro, and Gran Canaria mountains and deep ravines. They are rare, but you may also spot one on Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. Tenerife and Gran Canaria have the largest population, with an estimated 80,000-90,000 pairs of breeding birds. The rocky terrain and forests of Gran Canaria provide an ideal habitat for these birds. Show more
How many pairs of Atlantic Canary are estimated to breed in the Canary Islands?
80,000-90,000 pairs of Atlantic Canary breed in the Canary Islands, making it one of the largest populations of Atlantic Canary. Other regions, including Azores and Madeira, have thin populations, and the exact number of breeding pairs is unknown. The population and breeding density of Atlantic Canary fluctuates depending on the environmental conditions of the region. Show more
What is the population status of the Atlantic Canary in the Azores and Madeira?
The Atlantic Canary population in the Azores and Madeira is not frequently observed, and thus, the exact number of these birds is not estimated. The birds are thought to be uncommon in these regions, and their population status remains unknown. The population density of Atlantic Canary can fluctuate based on the local environment. Show more
How long does it take for the young birds to leave the nest after hatching?
The young Atlantic Canary leaves its nest after hatching, at 14 to 21 days of age. During the rearing period, both the parents actively nurture the young ones. The young birds must feed themselves with seeds and other insects after fledging, while adult birds may reproduce up to three times yearly, depending on the conditions. The nesting sites preferred by the Atlantic Canary are rugged, and found mostly within deep ravines, which offer an element of protection from predators. Show more
