The melodious vocals of the Zebra Finch set it apart from other species of birds. Read many more interesting facts associated with the Zebra Finches.

There are many distinguishing factors about the Zebra Finch; the most primary being the rather amazing vocals displayed by this very beautiful bird. Finches are especially popular amongst breeders. The beauty of their vocals is such that it draws researchers to study their sounds in detail in order to judge the frequency and the pitch of the sound. Experts opine Zebra Finches can be tamed very easily if these beautiful birds are handled when young. Here, we shall take a look at various factors associated with Zebra Finches.

Description and Distribution of the Zebra Finches:
Zebra Finch (Taeniopygia guttata) is one of the most common species of finches found mainly in Central Australia. This beautiful bird is native to Indonesia and is also spotted in Puerto Rico, Portugal and the U.S. On an average, Zebra Finches measure up to 10 cms and have a plumage in shades of gray. The name, Zebra Finch, has probably been given due to the characteristic black and white markings on the upper area of its tail. The throat of the Zebra Finch has a pale gray shade and the sides of its belly have a tint of chestnut. One can even notice many white spots on the sides of its belly. Zebra Finches have red eyes and their feet are a mixture of orange and yellow. The male Zebra Finch has chestnut colored patches on the cheek unlike the female species.

These tiny birds are commonly seen in the dry areas of Australia. Zebra Finches are also spotted in wooded grasslands that are close to water bodies. They are known to inhabit scattered bushes and trees. These birds generally avoid cool, moist areas.

Breeding of the Zebra Finches:
Zebra Finches breed during the months of October to April. It is the female Zebra Finch who makes the decision and selects the site for the nest. The male of this species does all the primary work of collecting the material needed to build the nest and are known to pull the leaves of a plant or strings for the same. The female Zebra Finch constructs a dome shaped nest. The male Zebra Finch sometimes deposits materials such as feathers or other items into the nest.

Generally, the female of this species lays around 3-12 eggs. Young ones of the Zebra Finch hatch after a period of two weeks. Offsprings may vary in terms of color; they may appear to be completely white or have a light shade of gray. The one prominent factor would be the orange color on the cheeks (this indicates a male Zebra Finch).

Vocal Sounds of the Zebra Finches:
Zebra Finches are known by their typical sounds and the interesting fact remains to be the different songs sung by every male! Their call can be aptly described as a beep and a variety of tunes are composed with varied levels of these beeps. Male Zebra Finches sing at puberty. While mating, males use a high-pitched sound. Young male Zebra Finches emulate the male parent for the various vocal sounds.

Food Habits of the Zebra Finches:
Zebra Finches can consume a variety of fruit seeds and small insects. They also consume vegetables, fruits, ripening grass seeds, worms etc. They are known to feed on the ground. Zebra Finches also help plants to reproduce naturally because being messy eaters, they tend to drop seeds around.

Although Zebra Finches are popular as pets, these birds are best observed in the wild. A Zebra Finch would be the happiest in its natural environment.