Zebra Finches Sociable Little Bird

Zebra finches are a small bird species that originate from Australia and can be found worldwide. They live in warm climates with plenty of trees for nesting and food sources, though they do not fly very well, so they will choose to stay on the ground or low branches.

                                             

Zebra finches can make wonderful pets, being sweet-tempered, ornately-patterned and highly active. Their call is little more than a happy “chirp” and they will readily socialize with a wide range of other birds, such as budgies and cockatiels. In short, these are sociable and inquisitive little birds which seem to bring a smile to every face.

                                                  

 

Zebra finches are small birds that occur naturally in the wilds of Australia. Indeed, they’re often found in flocks, flying alongside wild budgerigars. They naturally feed mainly on grass seed, moving across the dry outback, looking for fresh seed to enjoy.

Appearance

As with so many other domesticated pets, breeders have selectively bred zebra finches over the years to produce a dizzying array of different colour forms. To many, though, the classic “wild type” is still the best of all.

                                        

At its most basic, a zebra finch is a small grey bird with red/orange legs and bill. They are perhaps most notable for the black “tear drops” found beneath the eye.

While the female is reasonably drab, the males can be positively resplendent with bright orange cheek patches and attracting barring across the chest. Often the bill will also be a much deeper shade of red than seen in the females.

On average zebra finches will live to around five years in captivity.

Mates

                       

Social birds form large flocks outside of their breeding season, which lasts around nine months out of the year. They have been known to mate for life when given an opportunity and may have a territory of up to 160 acres with over 50 nests! Their popularity stems from the fact that they are relatively inexpensive to buy, easy to care for, and offer hours of entertainment as they sing and play with their toys.