Why Is My Canary Not Singing? Causes and Solutions

Canaries naturally stop singing during the annual moult and during breeding season — but silence outside these periods may indicate air sac mite infection, respiratory disease, or testicular tumor in males.

## Understanding the Canary Singing Cycle

Male canaries sing to attract mates and establish territory. Singing is hormonally driven and naturally diminishes during the moult (typically late summer to autumn) and during the nesting period.

## Natural Reasons for Silence

Moulting Season: The annual feather moult is energy-intensive and testosterone levels drop, suppressing singing. This typically lasts 6-8 weeks.

Breeding and Nesting Period: Once a male has paired, singing decreases. This is normal.

Short Daylight Hours in Winter: Canary singing is photoperiod-dependent. Reduced daylight naturally suppresses vocalization. Provide 12-14 hours of full-spectrum light to encourage singing.

## Medical Causes

Air Sac Mites (Sternostoma tracheacolum)
These parasites infest the respiratory tract, causing wheezing, clicking sounds, and progressive loss of song. Infection is often fatal if untreated. Treatment with ivermectin or moxidectin is highly effective when diagnosed early.

Respiratory Infection
Bacterial or mycoplasma infection of the upper or lower respiratory tract can physically impair vocalization and cause labored breathing.

Testicular Tumor (in male canaries)
Testicular tumors are relatively common in older male canaries and cause hormonal disruption, resulting in loss of singing, abdominal swelling, and sometimes color change in the cere.