Common Name: Zebra Finch
• Scientific Name: Taeniopygia guttata
• Origin: Australia (also found in Indonesia and East Timor)
• Size: 4 to 4.5 inches (10–12 cm)
• Weight: 12–16 grams
• Lifespan: 5 to 9 years (with proper care)
• Coloration:
• Males: Orange cheeks, black breast bar, zebra-like stripes on chest and throat, red-orange beak
• Females: Plain face, no cheek patch, lighter color, orange beak
• Many color mutations exist (e.g., pied, white, fawn, silver)
• Temperament:
• Active, curious, and social
• Peaceful, best kept in pairs or groups
• Not hand-tame, but fun to observe
• Vocalization:
• Males sing simple tunes
• Both sexes make soft beeps and chirps
• Not loud or disruptive
• Diet:
• Finch seed mix
• Fresh vegetables and greens (e.g., spinach, broccoli)
• Egg food or soft food (especially for breeding)
• Cuttlebone or mineral block for calcium
• Cage Needs:
• Spacious cage with horizontal flying space
• Multiple perches, swings, and toys
• Nesting material if breeding
• Breeding:
• Easy to breed in captivity
• Both parents care for eggs and chicks
• Nests should be monitored to avoid overbreeding
• Best For:
• Beginners
• Those who enjoy watching social bird behavior
