Like most finches, zebra finches are native to Central Australia.
They are also the most popular pet finch available.
One of the reasons why they are the preferred pet is because of their lifespan.
While in the wild they live for an average of five years, when kept in captivity they can live up to ten or twelve years.
One bird on record lived an outstanding fourteen and a half years.
Finches, zebra finches in particular, are known for their lovely songs.
The males of this species often serenade the females in and out of mating season.
Each male has its own song that differs from the other males.
The interesting thing is that males of the same bloodline often have similar songs.
Many people believe this is because the sons typically learn the songs from their fathers.
The males of this species are the only ones with a singing ability.
Their song starts as a few notes but through experimenting, they quickly are producing the type of song that is typical of finches.
Zebra finches' songs are known to change at puberty.
Before puberty, their songs lack the polish and finesse of an adult.
These songs are important to the finch lifestyle because they are part of the male mating call.
The females pick their mates due largely because of their song.
Sound in general is an important part of their life.
During mating, they produce a high-pitched whining sound.
When protecting their territory they issue a hissing sound in defense.
While they are not the most colorful of finches, zebra finches do have very distinctive markings that make them unique in the bird world.
These markings combined with their beautiful songs make them one of the most popular pets today.
Their physical attractions may catch the attention of many people, but their simple needs make people love them.
With a voracious appetite, these small birds will quickly consume mass quantities of millet, which is their preferred food.
While they can eat a lot and tend to be messy eaters, they are also very easy to please with simple millet sprays.
Along with plenty of millet, these pets must be supplied with plenty of fresh and clean water.
Like most finches, zebra finches also enjoy the occasional scrambled egg as a treat.
Another reason why these are the preferred bird for pet owners is the ease with which they breed in captivity.
With the correct food and care, a pair of zebra finches will mate easily in captivity.
Throw in a little knowledge from their owner and they will quickly be producing more little birds.
These birds can become territorial once nesting begins and thus should be disturbed as little as possible.
The majority of them are good parents with a high survival rate for their young.
No matter what the reasons behind getting pet finches, zebra finches are the preferred species for both new and experienced bird owners.
They are happy little birds that will bring a smile to most people.
Their simple care just makes this feathered package even easier to integrate into almost any household.