Quiko makes color supplements for red factor canaries, including Quiko Intensive Red, a powder that contains canthaxanthin. Canthaxanthin is a red pigment that red factor canaries can deposit in their feathers, giving them deeper orange-red color. It only works for red factor canaries and only while new feathers are growing.
What is a red factor canary?
Red factor canaries were bred by crossing canaries with the red siskin. They carry the genes to make red feathers, but they need carotenoid pigments in their diet to show the color. Without them, they look yellow or pale orange.
When to feed color supplements
Feathers take up pigment only while they are growing, so supplements are given during the annual molt, usually late summer to fall. Start when molting begins and stop when new feathers are fully grown. Giving the supplement at other times does not change the feathers you already have.
How to use Quiko Intensive Red
The product comes as a powder that can be mixed into egg food or soft food, or dissolved in the drinking water, depending on the package. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the amount. Too much pigment can give a dull brick-red color instead of a bright one, and it is not a substitute for a balanced diet. If you use water, change it daily, as colored water spoils quickly.
Keep the base diet strong
Molting is demanding, so canaries also need good protein and vitamins. A quality seed or pellet base plus egg food helps. See our guides to the best canary food, egg food for canaries, and the shorter Quiko Red Intense review and red factor canary color food posts.
Who should not use it
Color supplements are for pet birds only. They will not turn a normal yellow canary red, and they should not be given to wild birds. Ask an avian vet before using any supplement in a sick, young or breeding bird.
Bottom Line
Quiko Intensive Red can deepen the color of a red factor canary when used during the molt, alongside a balanced diet. Follow the label and keep the water fresh.
