Keeping a Hwamei: key points on feeding and daily care

The Hwamei (Chinese hwamei) is a traditional song-type ornamental bird in China, named for the white feather markings around its eyes that resemble painted eyebrows; its song is melodious and varied, and it is much loved by bird keepers. Note that the Hwamei has been listed as a nationally protected wild animal, so before keeping one you should confirm the source is legal, choose captive-bred individuals and complete the relevant procedures in accordance with the rules; never capture or buy wild Hwamei.

For feeding, the Hwamei's staple diet can be a dedicated compound feed or a daily ration based on egg-millet, supplemented with live insects such as mealworms and crickets, which helps maintain body condition and singing form. A small amount of fruit and green vegetables can also be given regularly for balanced nutrition. Drinking water must be kept clean and is best changed every day.

For daily care, it is best to keep a Hwamei in a spacious cage fitted with perches, a food dish and a water dish. Hwamei are alert and timid, so when a new bird is introduced to the cage, a cage cover can be used to shield it appropriately and reduce disturbance. When the weather is warm, it can be given a water bath to help clean its feathers; the cage should be cleaned regularly and placed in a well-ventilated, quiet spot with suitable light.

A Hwamei not singing is a fairly common problem in keeping, and the causes may include an unfamiliar environment, being startled, being in the molting period, or physical discomfort. At such times, keep the environment quiet and stable, strengthen nutrition and be patient with conditioning; most individuals will gradually resume singing once they adapt. Maintaining a regular routine and taking the bird out appropriately also help the Hwamei stay in good condition.