zebra finch Fast Facts
Overview
The Zebra finch was first described in 1801 and originally thought to be just one species. However in 2016 research showed that there were noticeable differences in plumage, mtDINA divergence and assortative mating. This research led to two species of Zebra finch, the Sundra Zebra finch from Indonesia and the Australian Zebra finch from the arid regions of Australia. Zebra finches are a small species of bird, that have an attractive colouration. Males have black and white bars on the throat and chest, orange cheek patches, and brown with white spots on the sides of their body. Females are duller in colouration. They are a very vocal species of bird, making a variety trilling songs. Male zebra finches will teach their young vocalisations, and sometimes the sounds are similar to everyday noises we hear demonstrating the birds ability to learn new vocalisations.
Diet
Zebra finches forage primarily for grass seed, but they will also eat flowers fruit and vegetables.
Reproduction
The male and female will work together to build a comfortable nest. The female will lay between 2 to 5 eggs and then incubate them for about 21 days, with the male incubating the eggs occasionally to allow the female to get food and exercise. The chicks will fledge the nest after about 3 weeks.
Threats + Conservation
According to the IUCN Redlist Zebra finches are considered Least Concern with a stable wild population.
Fun facts
Male Zebra finches make a hissing noise when they protect their territory and mates. Zebra finches have stripes on their tail feathers like a zebra. They are known for their soothing songs.