Zebra finch mutation question

[christie99]

This isn't for me, but someone contacted me asking what mutation this zebra could be. They are in the Middle East, so the mutations may be different.

Here is their question:

Its the one with the paleish cheek patch. Its a female, but is it dominant silver?

Here is the photo they linked for me:
http://pets.webshots.com/photo/23468213 ... 2423RMHotO

What do you guys think?

[CandoAviary]

Yes, I would say dominant silver. Here a a very similar hen on this site.
http://www.efinch.com/species/dszeb.htm

[Nagdabit]

I kind of doubt Dominant Silver. According to efinch, (http://www.efinch.com/species/dszeb.htm) Dominant Silver dilutes all markings, which would include the black tear drops. However in the picture you referenced they appear to be full strength.

To me it looks like a Normal Gray hen with what is called "ghost" cheek patches. With this particular type of finch, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. While many (myself included) think it's a nice diversion from the Normal Gray mutation (It is not classified as a separate mutation) many of the serious show breeders are not as happy to see one pop up in their flock. This type of marking on a hen is considered to be a show fault therefore most breeders do not actively try to promote the mutation, so it's appearance is rather random.

[christie99]

Thanks guys. This will hopefully help the person that was asking me. He also is infatuated with the black cheek and black breasted zebras, so he may contact me with another question in the future if you are willing to answer.