ZEBRA FINCH
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SCIENTIFIC NAME: Taeniopygia guttata
ORIGIN: Australia
FOOD: Seeds, and on occasion, fruits and vegetables
LIFE SPAN: 4-8 years
SIZE: About 7 inches
HOUSING:
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Birds acclimate well to average household temperatures; be cautious of extreme temperature change;
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cage should be placed off the floor in an area that is well-lit and away from drafts
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A rectangular flight cage, approximately 24" W x14" D x 18" H, with metal bars spaced no greater than 3/8" apart, makes a good home for up to 3 finches; as with all animals, it is best to provide the largest habitat possible
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A variety of appropriate perch sizes to exercise feet and help prevent arthritis is recommended
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A metal grate over the droppings tray will the bird away from droppings; line the droppings tray with cage
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paper or appropriate substrate for easier cleaning; to avoid contamination, do not place food or water containers under perches
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Bird owners should avoid non-stick cookware and appliances as they can release fumes hazardous to your birds health
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DIET:
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Specialized pelleted diets are highly recommended and should consist of 60-70% of the diet;
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use fortified seeds in moderation as they are higher in fat and less nutritious than pellets
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Fresh, dark leafy greens several times a week, plus slices of raw apples and oranges and grated carrots and sweet potato
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Clean, fresh, filtered and chlorine-free water changed daily
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Do not feed birds avocados, fruit seeds, chocolate, alcohol or caffeine as these can cause serious medical problems
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FEEDING:
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If your bird is used to a seed diet, convert to pellets gradually; fresh pellets or seeds and fresh, clean, chlorine-free water should always be available
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Fresh fruits and vegetables should be given daily and discarded when not eaten within 24 hours; finches appreciate quality and variety in their food
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RECOMMENDED SUPPLIES:
NORMAL BEHAVIOR & INTERACTION:
HABITAT MAINTENANCE:
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Clean and disinfect the cage and perches; replace substrate or cage liner weekly or more often if needed; replace food and water daily
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Replace perches, dishes, and toys when worn or damaged
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Ensure that there are no cage parts or toys with lead, zinc or lead and lead-based paints or galvanized parts as these can cause serious medical issues if ingested by your bird
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GROOMING & HYGIENE:
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Provide filtered, chlorine-free, lukewarm water regularly for bathing; remove the water when done; as an alternative, mist the bird with water or a grooming spray
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Clipping of flight feathers is not necessary, but when done correctly it can help prevent injury or escape; consult an avian veterinarian on what is best for your bird
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Nails should be trimmed by a qualified person to prevent injury to the bird
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SIGNS OF A HEALTHY ANIMAL:
• Active, alert, and sociable • Eats and drinks throughout the day • Dry nostrils and bright, dry eyes • Beak, legs, and feet normal in appearance • Clean, dry vent • Smooth, well-groomed feathers
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COMMON HEALTH ISSUES:
Health Issue Symptoms or Causes Suggested Action
Diarrhea: Fecal portion of stool not formed. Multiple causes, from change in diet to internal parasites
Seek veterinary attention; ensure correct diet; reduce fruit intake
Feather Plucking: Bird plucks own feathers
Seek veterinary attention; provide stimulation/new toys
Mites: (Scaly Face and Leg Disease)
White deposits on eyes, beak, legs, and feet
Seek treatment from veterinarian
Psittacosis: Appetite loss, fluffed feathers, nasal discharge
Seek immediate veterinary attention
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RED FLAGS:
• Beak swelling or accumulations • Fluffed, plucked, or soiled feathers • Sitting on floor of habitat • Wheezing or coughing • Runny or discolored stools • Favoring one foot
• Eye or nasal discharge • Red or swollen eyes • Loss of appetite
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REFERENCES & LINKS:
