![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Ideally they should be fed just as they begin to sprout. This is an excellent way to boost nutrition as the seeds are at the peak of their nutritional value at sprouting. Millet sprays are a favorite treat of many finches but should be given sparingly, or the finches may develop a preference for millet. Check that the seeds are fresh by sprouting them (put some in a plastic bag with a damp paper towel) - if they will not sprout then they are too old to feed. Seedsįeed a good quality finch seed mix, although this should never the the sole diet of your finches. This is helpful especially in controlling molting and breeding behavior, but isn't strictly necessary for the average pet zebra finch. Some people use full spectrum lighting for their finches. The water in the bath should be clean so remove the bath water as soon as it becomes soiled. BathĪ shallow dish of water should be provided several times a week for bathing. Food dishes can also be placed on the floor (also not under perches, of course) or attached to the side of the cage. Whichever you use, make sure there is always a supply of fresh clean water available, and clean water dished daily. Some keepers prefer tube style water dispensers, while others use dishes either attached to the cage (with perches for access) or on the floor (place away from perches to reduce soiling with feces). Finches do not crave social interaction with people so unlike parrots do not need to be in a busy social part of the home, and in fact will probably be less stressed if kept in a quiet corner. Avoid direct sunlight (overheating risk) as well draughts or being to close to heat or air conditioning ducts. You'll want the finch cage in a quiet secure location in your home (although in warmer climates finches can be acclimated to outdoor aviaries). Small bells or hanging toys can also be included, although finches are generally not very interested in toys. Swings and ladders can also be provided, although ladders are more likely to be used as perches than for climbing. You can use silk plants or non-toxic live plants. If possible, provide some plant cover at the perches to allow for privacy (also more important if keeping a group). Small clip on perches can be used for some of the perches, and are nice since they do not span the whole cage and offer a little privacy in an aviary situation since only one or two finches can sit on one at a time. Also, use a couple of different sized dowels and try to add some natural branches as perches too, perhaps angling them to provide further variety so their feet are not always holding onto perches in exactly the same way. Supply a variety of perches, but make sure the cage is not so cluttered that the finches cannot fly back and forth (keep an open flight path through the length of the cage). Wire spacing should be 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch. This can be home built, but keep in mind that excellent hygiene is a must so any cage should be easy to clean. If you are going to get a larger group, you'll need an aviary or flight cage. 30 inches long, by 18 inches high and 18 inches wide is a good sized cage for a pair of zebra finches. While experts vary in their recommended minimum size, it a good idea to get the largest cage you can. Cage SizeĪs mentioned above, the height of the cage is not as vital as having room to fly horizontally, so a long but shorter cage is acceptable. The above description applies to the wild type coloration a wide variety of color mutations are now available. Both males and females have red-orange beaks, although the male's is much brighter in hue. The males have black and white bars on the throat and breast, orange cheek patches and brown on the sides of the body. They are attractive birds, and the males are easily distinguished from the females. Zebra finches are arguably the most popular bird species found in the North American pet trade. The wide range here can probably be attributed to species differences as well as an increased understanding of their husbandry, especially diet. In general, finches have an expected lifespan of anywhere from 5-15 years. ![]()
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