Belgian Waterslager Canary

The Belgian waterslager canary, also called the Malinois waterslager, is a song canary developed in Belgium from the domestic canary, Serinus canaria. Its name refers to the watery, bubbling notes prized in its song, along with ringing and hollow phrases that judges evaluate by ear. Waterslagers are commonly clear yellow, buff, or lightly variegated, and their body type is secondary to the voice that the line is bred to produce.

Successful waterslager keeping depends on calm housing and careful song management as much as ordinary cage care. Young males are often raised where they can hear suitable tutors and are later housed so their individual songs can be assessed. A good diet, regular bathing, clean air, and a quiet molt period help birds maintain condition. Breeders trying to preserve the variety usually avoid casual crossing with color or type canaries, because the song pattern is easier to lose than the yellow appearance.

Colors: Clear Buff, Clear Yellow, Variegated Buff, Variegated Yellow