Common name: Zebra finch
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Estrildidae
Genus: Taeniopygia
Species: T. guttata |
Zebra Finch
Description: Adult zebra finches have red beaks (juveniles have black beaks), with white patches of feathers on either side of the beak. A line of black feathers extends horizontally down from the finch's eye, marking the end of these white feathers, and the start of an orange-yellow patch of feathers. Zebra finches have bluish-gray chests with wavy black markings. Their bellies are gray-white, and their sides are orange-red. Females are gray on top, and also gray on their throat, neck, chest, and sides. They have a gray-white ear mark. (1)
Look-alikes: None.
Proportions: Zebra finches are typically around 4 inches (10 cm) although some varieties are larger. (2)
Weight: Zebra finches typically weigh about 15-30 grams (0.5-1.0 oz). (3)
Diet: Herbivorous. Zebra finch's beaks are specifically designed for cracking open grass seed. (3) They are able to survive on lower protein levels than most other finches and can actually raise their young on seed alone. In captivity, however, this should not be allowed. They should be fed a standard finch mix and will also eagerly take egg food, greens, and soaked seed. (4) They should also always have access to fresh water, a cuttlebone, and grit. (2) Changes of water daily are critical. (5)
Behavior: Zebra finches are very social birds. They should be kept in pairs. However, they do not particularly like associating with humans. Those who wish for a bird who is affectionate toward humans and their touch should probably avoid a zebra finch. (5)
Reproduction: Zebra finches reach sexual maturity around 90 days after hatching. (3) They are known for their adaptability, able to breed in the harshest conditions. (4)
Location: Zebra finches are found in much of Australia, Tasmania, and the Flores Islands (northwest of Australia). (2)
Habitat: In the wild, zebra finches live mainly among grasslands. (5)
Temperament: Occasionally zebra finches will become aggressive, particularly males. Providing a toy for male zebra finches to vent their frustration on is a good way to keep aggression from becoming a problem. (5)
Bibliography:
1. Zebra Finch. <http://www.bird-breeds.com/Zebra_Finch.htm>
2. Zebra Finches. <http://www.singing-wings-aviary.com/zebrafinches.htm>
3. Zebra Finch. <http://www.kaytee.com/companion_animals/birds/zebra_finch/>
4. The Zebra Finch. <http://efinch.com/species/zebra.htm>
5. Zebra Finches: Basic Care for Your New Bird./ <http://www.finchworld.com/Birds/Finch/Zebra/basic.html>
Information contributed by: Cameron V.
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