Zebra Finches - Lively flock bird with pronounced social behavior
Species-appropriate husbandry – How to make them feel comfortable
Social Living
Zebra finches should be kept in groups. Keeping them individually is not species-appropriate and can lead to behavioral disorders.
Structured Aviary
The aviary should be at least 120 × 60 × 100 cm (L × W × H). For groups with more than 20 birds, the aviary’s floor area must be extended by 0.05 m² for each additional bird. The setup should include natural branches, perches, and sheltered sleeping areas.
Daily Free Flight
A free flight area is required. The area should be designed to be safe and structured to support their natural urge to move.
Nesting Opportunities
Closed nesting boxes or open nesting baskets, which also serve as sleeping places, should be provided.
Bathing and Sand Bathing Facilities
Zebra finches require regular bathing opportunities for feather care. Both water and sand baths should always be accessible.
Cleanliness & Hygiene
🧼 Weekly change
💦 Keep bathing areas clean
A clean environment is essential for the health of zebra finches:
Daily Freshness
Bedding, as well as food and water containers, must be cleaned daily. Good hygiene reliably protects these sensitive finches from diseases.
Weekly Basic Care
The substrate should be completely replaced once a week. For large groups, more frequent cleaning is recommended.
Clean Bathing Experience
Sand and water baths must remain hygienic. They are important for the feather care of zebra finches and enhance their well-being.
Litter
Nutrition
🥦 Vegetables & fruit
🧂 Minerals & grit
Zebra finches require a balanced diet consisting of high-quality seed food for finches, supplemented with fresh vegetables, fruit, and occasionally sprouted food. Grit and mineral stones support digestion. Fresh water must always be available.
Seed-Based Diet
The foundation is a high-quality finch food based on seeds. It provides the animals with energy and nutrients.
Fresh Food Complements
Vegetables, fruit, and sprouted food provide vitamins. They strengthen health and activity and promote shiny plumage.
Mineral Provision
Grit, mineral stones, and fresh water must always be available. They support digestion and promote vitality.
Activity
👥 Swarm life
🌿 New branches
These curious birds require diverse enrichment opportunities:
Zebra finches are very active and curious – they love to climb, bathe, and explore their surroundings. Climbing branches, swings, varied perches, and natural materials stimulate movement. Particularly exciting: hidden feeding spots and new branches in the flight area.
Active Environment
Natural branches, swings, and varied perches stimulate movement and prevent boredom in daily life.
Social Connection
Zebra finches are flock birds. When they explore their surroundings together, it strengthens their bonds and enhances their well-being.
Daily Stimulation
New branches, hidden feeding spots, and natural materials stimulate their exploratory spirit. This keeps the birds curious and engaged.
