Breeding zebra finches may become an addictive hobby. The happy, loving birds relish their parental duties. Getting zebra finches in a breeding mood does not pose a problem for the hobbyist, because the birds are always willing to comply. The small birds reach reproductive age at approximately 11 to 12 weeks of age. Despite the birds readiness to breed, hobbyists should allow the birds to mature to at least 6 to 9 months of age before allowing the birds to undertake breeding, laying eggs and raising a clutch.
Cage Requirements
Choose a relatively large cage for your pair of breeding zebra finches. The cage should measure a minimum of 16 inches by 16 inches by 20 inches, to offer ample room for the small birds. Only one pair of birds should be located in the cage. Locate the cage in sunny location to encourage breeding. The trick to getting zebra finches in a breeding mood is to make sure the cage is located where the birds will receive 14 to 16 hours of sunlight per day.
A breeding flight cage has the capability of housing more than one breeding pair. The finches flight cage should measure a minimum of 3 feet wide, by 6 feet long, by 4 feet high. Always place one extra nest box in the flight cage for each breeding bird pair, so they have a choice of where they would prefer to nest.
The nest box should be make specifically for zebra finches. It should have one small, round oval opening to allow the birds easy admission. Most commercial nest boxes are woven from various reeds or straw-like material. Locate the nest box as high in the cage as possible. Breeding zebra finches require a feeling of safety to successfully breed and nest. A nest box in a high location gives the birds a sense of security.
Nesting Material
Consider using shredded burlap, straw, grass or commercial cotton nesting material for the birds. Never give the finch birds string, or they may choke or become entangled in the material. The male gathers the nesting material and constructs the nest. He often picks his own feathers to provide a soft, nest bottom for the young. Once the male begins to build a nest you can expect the hen to lay eggs soon.
Baby Zebra Finch Growth Rate
The zebra finch hen lays one egg per day over the course of 3 to 8 days. Once the eggs are laid the male and female will share the responsibility of incubating the eggs. The incubation period usually averages 14 days. Count the days carefully, because if the eggs do not hatch in 20 days, they are not viable and should be removed from the nest. Once the eggs are removed, the female will breed again and lay a new clutch.
The baby zebra finches will fledge at approximately 21 days old. They will begin to nibble on food when they are 4 weeks old. When the chicks reach 6 weeks old move them to their own cage.
Breeding zebra finches successfully does not require anything extensive and is a fun hobby that many bird enthusiasts enjoy undertaking.