A canary network is an operational blockchain with a defined token supply that allows new features to be tested under production conditions, before they are deployed on the main network. This is in contrast to a testnet which generally has an unlimited token supply.

All users of the canary network are real users, but they are aware of the experimental nature of the platform. Flare’s canary network is called Songbird, and it is furthermore the first stage in Flare’s governance system.

Songbird will serve as the lower house in the planned bicameral Flare governance system. The community will be able to submit and vote for proposals on Songbird so that, when approved, they may be considered by the Flare Foundation for inclusion on the Flare network.