Keeping ZEBRA FINCHES

Domesticated Zebra Finch Taeniopygia guttata  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) are the most common species of Australian finch and comes from the family called Estrildid which features most of the finches kept in aviculture across the world. It lives in the cool south and tropical far north of the country as well as in Indonesia and East Timor.

Basics

People have called zebras 'flying mice' due to the ease of which they reproduce. This is great if you are looking to start breeding or add a new species to your aviary as it is very little in the way of specific requirements for them.

Zebra finches are happy to live in colonies with their own kind of birds, as well as a huge range of other species. They will live peacefully with nearly all other species of finch, canaries, British birds, doves and even smaller parakeets.

When breeding, both birds can be a little defensive of their nest and will chase other zebras away from it. This is a natural behaviour and will extend when a chick fledges, or leaves the nest, but is never particularly aggressive or result in harm to the other bird. It is more of a noisy, fast-flying warning to keep away from their house.

Feeding zebras is pretty uncomplicated, as well. Use a good foreign finch mix as the basis of your feeding regime and supplement with egg food and some specialist seeds such as niger or hemp seed. Fresh fruit and vegetables are very important for their health, and they will readily consume foods such as spinach, kale and cabbage and fruits such as apple, pear, grapes, mango and plums. With fruit such as apple and plum, remove any seeds or stones as these contain tiny amounts of toxic substances, so better not to take a chance. Access to grit or cuttlefish is also important, especially around breeding time to replace calcium used in making eggs in the hen.

Breeding

Zebra finches don't have a particular breeding season in the way many birds do. They are triggered into breeding condition by light and heat levels or sometimes, for no perceivable reason! They like a variety of nesting materials and are surprisingly good little builders. Coconut fibre, jute, sisal, feathers and even dried grass will all be incorporated into the nest which will usually be a domed affair. They will also happily use a half-open finch nest box or one with a single hole in.

Once the nest is finished, take away surplus nesting material; otherwise, they will keep building and even cover their eggs. Anywhere from 2-7 eggs are laid and are incubated by both birds for around two weeks. When the chicks hatch, they are tiny and nearly hairless, blind and helpless. They are fed by the parents in the nest for around three weeks at which time they fledge fully feathered and resembling an adult save for their black beak. A way of knowing that the bird has matured is that the beak will change from black to bright red for a cock bird or a duller red for a hen.

After fledging, the chicks are fed by the parents for at least two weeks, at which time they may be able to fly or may not be proficient. If they aren't the best at flying, they will seek out corners to hide in so always keep an eye open for fledgelings in odd spots and make sure they don't get themselves stuck.

Zebras can breed at crazy ages of around three months, but it is advisable to wait until at least six months of age before allowing this. One way to ensure this is to keep males and females in separate cages until fully matured.

Keeping Zebras

The lifespan of these little birds is surprisingly long. In the wild, they live around five years but in captivity, 5-7 is average, 12 is possible and the oldest zebra was recorded at 14.5 years of age. They are relatively hardy concerning weather conditions, though any bird should be sheltered from the worst of the climate.

They will happily live in a good-sized cage as a pair or colony, or with other birds. They will also thrive in a flight or large aviary cage and in a flight, can become quite friendly towards humans when they can approach on their own terms. Standing very still with food in hand before the first feed is a good way to win them over, and some may happily hop onto your hand to get in at the food first.

Conclusion

No matter what your experience with birds, zebra finches are a great bird to have. They need little specialist care and can breed easily given a few simple supplies. They come in a range of colours as well and different mutations, so you can quickly get involved in the fun side of genetics and learning which pairing might produce which colours. But all in all, they are fantastic little characters who will quickly win your heart.

Article Source: EzineArticles

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A ZEBRA FINCH - Your Perfect Pet?

Zebra Finch (Taeniopygia guttata) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Zebra Finches have become enormously popular pets over recent years, and this upward trend shows no signs of slowing down. They are undeniably attractive animals, while also being some of the easiest birds to care for and having endearing personalities, so it's easy to see why so many people are choosing to keep them as pets.

These finches don't have any particularly unusual or awkward care requirements, and as such, they are not difficult birds to look after. A cage is, of course, necessary, but it doesn't need to be as big as it would be for many other birds. A larger cage will always be preferred though, and for any more than a single pair of finches, you'll need a much larger enclosure. Still, this is the case for any pet bird species.

One frequent concern amongst potential buyers is how noisy the finches will be - constantly squawking birds may well make you unpopular with your neighbors! However Zebra Finches are fairly quiet birds, and while they are not silent, they can easily be kept in a flat or apartment without annoying anyone living nearby.

Their diet can be catered for with a wide range of commercially available products that any pet store will supply, and the cage can even be lined with newspaper if you don't want to buy anything more expensive. Further research is obviously recommended to see exactly what your pets will need before you get them, and there are many comprehensive care sheets both online and in books.

Zebra Finches will live comfortably at room temperature and so they can be very easily integrated into the average home, although they should always be kept away from cold draughts and air conditioning units. They may need some exposure to UV light, and some people choose to buy special lights to achieve this, but it shouldn't be an issue in most houses.

Choosing to buy a couple of these birds is a reasonably long-term commitment as they should live for at least six years, but this isn't exceptionally long and is shorter than many species, making them a good choice for a first bird. If you've never owned a bird before, then Zebra Finches are certainly a better choice than something like a parrot that may outlive you!

In conclusion, Zebra Finches make excellent pets, both for first-time owners and for more experienced keepers who want something new. Being so beautiful and straightforward to care for, it's no wonder more and more people are buying these birds!

By Peter Joyce For more information about Zebra Finches and how to care for them, take a look at the comprehensive care sheet here at ExoticPetsResources.com. Article Source: EzineArticles

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ZEBRA FINCHES - All About Zebra Finches Care, Diet

Zebra Finch - Photo   by     Orchids love rainwater 

Zebra Finches, Variety, Care, and Food

In the Australian grasslands, they have a small bird called Zebra Finch. Those finches come in a wide variety. Because of the strict policies of exportation of animals that Australia has, most of the finches are not born there. Zebra finches are very colorful birds, the males being more colorful than the females. Because of the ease in breeding these birds in captivity and the very attractive coloring, they have become very popular.

Like many other beautiful finches, the Zebra Finch has a delightful chirping song, a soft chirping that is a bit different but pleasing. A lot of finch owners find the sound pleasant and sweet. Studies have shown that the male finch is more vocal of the two sexes.

Although the zebra finch is very social with other birds they are quite shy around people. Finches are not known for liking to be held, the finch really doesn't like to be held or petted. So they are beautiful birds but if you are buying one because you would like to hold it, the zebra finch is not recommended. Finches in the wild do tend to flock together with other finches of the like, this is the reason they are so social in captivity. If you think of purchasing a finch, you might consider buying in pairs as to ensure they are happy.

Because zebra finches love to fly around it is recommended you purchase a large cage that can permit this activity. Nothing less than 25 inches across is best, you can find these sizes in affordable metal or wooden cages. Also, remember that just because a finch is small in size, do not underestimate their capabilities for escaping. If the bars are not close enough together the finch will escape. So it is vital to make sure the cage bar gape is adequate. If at all possible please avoid a cage made of brass, or coated in brass, this is toxic for your birds.

Care for your zebra finch will consist of the correct seed which is available from any local supply store. finches also need a diet supplement of greens, vegetables, and fruits. If you can get sprouted seeds this is optimal in providing the need for greens. Cucumbers and carrots will satisfy the vegetable needs. Always make sure your finch has plenty of water, and always include a bathing area, they love to clean themselves.

Also, make sure the cage is well-kept, cleaning should take place at least weekly. Making sure everything is tidy will allow your zebra finch to show off their best qualities.

Other dietary items will consist of bananas, apples and other fruits your zebra finch may love. Zebra finches have another need as well, and that is calcium. Calcium is essential as a mineral supplement. This encourages bone development as well as helping with female egg production. At your local supply store look for a Cuttlebone, this will be more than adequate.

Taking good care of your finch is important, and these birds will love you for it. They will play and sing, brightening up the household, and make everything so peaceful and relaxing. Take good care do not grab at your finches, zebra finches tend to scare easy like other finches and you do not want to cause any trauma to your birds. Always remember to have everyone in the household trained on care for your birds. This will help and allow everyone to be aware, so you can all enjoy these wonderful additions to the home.

Elisabeth S Krautler Elisabeth Krautler is a finch expert. - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Fact Sheet: ZEBRA FINCH - Taeniopygia guttata

(Original Title: Zebra Finches-Fiesty Birds With a Perky Attitude!)

Photo  by Prab Bhatia Photography 

Introduction

Zebra finches are classified as the smallest of the pet birds available on the market. Originating from the continent of Australia, they are also found in Indonesia, Central, and North America. With their attractive plumage and ease of maintenance, they are highly prized as pets. They are relatively hardy birds which can be kept indoors as well as in outdoor aviaries.

They have been a popular pet bird for over 100 years. They are an ideal choice for any bird enthusiast or anyone looking for a pet. Zebra Finches can live up to 10 years with good nutrition and care.

Description

Zebra finches come in several patterns and colors. They vary in color according to their breed. Typically, the male sports a gray-hued body and wings, while his underside is off-white. The beak and legs are a red-orange color. There are cheek patches on his head and a tear-dropped shaped mark under the eyes. There is a chestnut brown white dotted coloration below the wings. And finally, the male has a black and white striped chest which gives the species its' common name.

The female boasts a gray-hued body and wings along with the off-white underside. The beak is one shade of orange lighter than that of the male. The major difference in appearance between male and female is that the male displays the cheek patches while the female does not. Both females and males have red eyes and their feet are a combination of orange and yellow.

Behavior

Zebra finches are active birds, able to entertain themselves. They have soft, pleasing vocalizations consisting of chirping and peeping. They are flock birds and do best when a number of pairs are housed together. They are usually sold in pairs and need to be maintained as pairs for their emotional well-being.

Zebra finches are messy and voracious eaters, typically dropping seed everywhere. They are feisty little critters with a perky attitude. Zebra finches are crazy about canary tassel toys!

Like all finches, Zebra finches are cautious with humans and don't enjoy being touched. These birds do not become finger tame, though they do come to enjoy the interaction with their owners over time. However, some owners attest to bird's ability to learn to become at ease with a human touch. As social animals, they do require the company of other compatible birds to stay emotionally healthy.

Cages and Aviaries

Zebra finches are relatively hardy birds that can be kept indoors, or in outdoor aviaries. Experts advise owners to house their finches in the largest cage affordable. Zebra finches do well in a mixed aviary. However, they don't mix well with all species of finches.

Feeding

All finches are mostly seed eaters. Finch owners have assumed that their birds need grit similar to other bird species. However, finches do not require grit. Give your birds daily fresh water. Finches can die within 24 hours without water. Supplement their diet of seeds with greens and fruit-but don't overdo it! Supply a calcium supplement, especially during mating season. Cooked eggshells make a good substitute for cuttlebone.

Health

Zebra finches are usually quite healthy, but not quite as hardy as larger pet birds,

They are very susceptible to airborne toxins. Also, they can catch colds from drafts. Therefore, they need to be housed clear of windows and doors in order to stay healthy. They will do well in temperatures down to around 40 F.

Breeding

Zebra finches easily breed in captivity. Zebras breed colonially and are socially monogamous, in many cases maintaining permanent pair bonds. The male helps in the nest building as well as hatching duties and feeding the young. Zebra finches can lay a maximum of eight eggs, but usually have 2 to 5 eggs in their nests. Zebra Finches will lay one egg every other day until their clutch is complete.

After egg laying, it's the hen that will spend most of her time on the nest. The male will from time to time, relieve her for food and exercise breaks. The eggs will begin to hatch 12 to 18 days after they have been laid.

Breeding zebra finches in pair cages are ideal. However, they will breed in aviaries. During mating season the birds require up to 16 hours of daily sunlight. If there is no window in the area where the cage is located, supply an artificial source of light with a timer.

Conclusion

Zebra finches are arguably the most popular and commonly kept Australian finch species. Zebra finches are some of the easiest pet birds to keep and can make excellent companions for people where noise and space is a concern. With good nutrition and care, these birds can live up to 10 years. They are considered one of my favorite of all finch varieties.

By Daniel P. Ransom Daniel P. Ransom is a finch expert. He has been raising and breeding many varieties of finches for over 20 years. He supplies local and regional pet shops with happy and healthy birds. Article Source: EzineArticles

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ZEBRA FINCHES As Pets

If you've decided to take the plunge and get a few Zebra finches as pets, then bravo to you! This kind of bird makes for a great companion at home. While a lot of other people prefer different kinds of pets to take home, we're loyal to this kind. Why is that? Well, if you read our reasons below, you'll easily see why these birds make great household pets!

Taeniopygia guttata (Zebra finch) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Benefits of Getting Zebra Finches

1. They are a hardy type of bird- Many homeowners get discouraged from keeping birds of any sort in their home because they can be easily affected by different diseases. In truth, a lot of birds really do get sick, and eventually die because of different things that they get from their other birds, or even the environment. Luckily, Zebra Finches birds are not these types of birds. This kind of finch is very resilient and can withstand different sorts of diseases. The immune system of these birds seems to be much stronger compared to other varieties of Finches.

2. These guys are very easy to breed- if your reason for investing in these birds is to eventually breed them, then you will make the right choice by going with these birds. Zebra finches breed much more easily compared to other sorts of finches. In fact, this bird is an excellent variety for the bird breeder who is just starting out. Other Finch owners and breeders have even observed that this variety of Finch has the tendency to breed TOO much, so if you do not want any more of these birds in your home, then it may be best to just get females.

3. They are the easiest to maintain- while it is normal to experience different kinds of problems with other kinds of finches, it is a rarity in the case of the Zebra Finch. These birds are really very easy to maintain, making them the ideal pet for people with busy and active lifestyles, children, and those that live in tiny and limited spaces. What's more, is that this kind of feathered friend does not take up much space, and has a soothing and lovely chirp to boot.

We hope we've stated our case well enough, and you are now inclined to get a Finch of your own. You'll find that keeping these birds in your home can bring much entertainment, amusement, and overall enjoyment!

By Michael M Stanford - Article Source: EzineArticles

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