The zebra finch (Taeniopygia guttata) is a small passerine bird in the family Estrildidae. Native to Australia and Indonesia, it has been introduced to many other parts of the world and is now a common pet bird. The zebra finch is characterised by its stout build, relatively long tail and black-and-white striped plumage. Both sexes have brown upperparts, but the male has distinctive black-and-white head markings, while the female usually has a plainer face with some dark streaks. Juveniles are similar to adults but lack the stripes on their heads.
The zebra finch is an opportunistic feeder and will eat a wide variety of seeds, fruits and insects. In captivity, it is often fed a diet of commercial seed mix supplemented with live foods such as mealworms or crickets. It prefers to drink from moving water sources such as dripping taps or waterfalls rather than still water bowls.
The zebra finch is social bird that forms large flocks when not breeding. It breeds throughout much of Australia in a wide variety of habitats including arid zones, woodlands, grasslands and even urban areas. The nest is built by both sexes and consists of a dome of grasses lined with softer materials such as feathers or down. Up to eight eggs are laid which hatch after around two weeks incubation period. Both parents help care for the young birds which fledge at around three weeks old but remain dependent on their parents for several more weeks before becoming fully independent.
Zebra finches are popular cage birds due to their attractive appearance and cheerful song (the male’s song being particularly melodious). They can be kept singly or in pairs/small groups and generally make good pets if well cared for although they can be nippy if not handled regularly from an early age.