Zebra Finch

Zebra finches are lively, social birds native to Australia, known for their cheerful chirping and striking black-and-white striped patterns. These small, low-maintenance birds thrive in pairs or small flocks and are ideal for beginners. Males sport bright orange cheek patches and distinctive chest patterns, while females have more subdued coloration.

ESSENTIAL FACTS

FeatureDetails
Scientific NameTaeniopygia guttata
Size/Weight4 inches | 10-15g
Lifespan5-7 years (up to 10 in captivity)

IDENTIFICATION

FeatureDetails
MaleOrange cheek patches, black breast stripes, red beak
FemaleGray cheek patches, no breast stripes, orange beak
Color VarietiesWhite, fawn, pied, black-cheek mutations

DIET

ComponentDetails
Base DietFinch seed mix (1 tsp/bird/day)
SupplementalSprouted seeds, egg food (breeding season)
GritOyster shell/cuttlebone for calcium

HOUSING

FeatureDetails
Cage SizeMinimum 24″L × 16″W × 18″H (pair)
Flight SpaceHorizontal cages preferred
NestingWicker baskets or wooden boxes

BEHAVIOR

TraitDetails
VocalizationConstant cheerful chirps (no singing)
Social StructureMust be kept in pairs/groups
ActivityVery active, enjoy flying horizontally
zebra finch care guide and products

Zebra Finch Care Schedule

DAILY CARE

TaskDetailsTime
Seed RefreshFinch seed mix (1 tsp per bird)Morning
Water ChangeClean shallow water dishesAM & PM
Egg FoodDuring breeding season onlyEvening
Health CheckObserve activity/droppingsEvening

WEEKLY CARE

TaskDetailsFrequency
Cage CleaningRemove all debris, wipe surfacesSunday
Bath OfferShallow water dish (1″ deep)2-3x/week
Seed VarietyAdd sprouted seeds/millet sprayWednesday

MONTHLY CARE

TaskDetailsWhen
Deep DisinfectionVinegar solution for entire cage1st of month
Perch RotationReplace/clean all perchesMonthly
Nest CheckReplace old nesting materialAs needed

Zebra Finch Pro Tips

Social Needs: Never keep singly – minimum pair housing required.

Breeding: Provide coconut fiber for nest building.

Entertainment: Add safe plants like millet sprays for foraging.