1.
society finch; Bengalese finch
A small domesticated finch (Lonchura striata domestica) kept as a pet in Japan since the Edo period. Known for its sociable nature and willingness to foster the chicks of other finch species.
十姉妹を飼っている。
I keep society finches.
十姉妹は大人しくて飼いやすい鳥だ。
Society finches are docile and easy birds to keep.
江戸時代から愛玩用として改良されてきた十姉妹は、今も人気の小鳥だ。
The society finch, bred as a pet since the Edo period, is still a popular small bird today.
Written with the kanji for 十 (ten) + 姉妹 (sisters), reflecting the bird's habit of huddling together in close groups. Kept primarily as a pet rather than for show or song.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 十姉妹を飼う: to keep society finches
- 十姉妹の巣: a society finch's nest
- つがいの十姉妹: a pair of society finches
CULTURAL NOTE:
Bred in Japan for over 200 years, the society finch is often used by breeders as a foster parent for the eggs and chicks of other, more delicate finch species such as the Gouldian finch.