FINCHforum

I recently posted asking for advice about a mate for my rescued Zebra Finch. I bought a mate and the 2 are really happy. We have decided to build an outdoor aviary for them and would like to have a happy group of birds. Do you have any recommendations please for birds that will get on with the Zebras? With many thanks.

Take a look here!
http://www.finchinfo.com/housing/compatible_species.php

I've kept lots of different species with Zebras (even species that the list says aren't compatible. Oops.)

Off the top of my head, I've done...
Societies
Gouldians
Owls
Stars
Nuns
Spice
Af. Silverbills
Strawberries

...among others. All did really well together. But really, it's a matter of compatible individuals. I've lucked out with some unusually friendly zebras. You could also end up with an unusually aggressive bird of a species that's usually easy going. So it's difficult to make generalizations; I focus more on who they are as individuals as each one is unique. I just always make sure I have an extra cage in case a newcomer doesn't play well with others. In other words, I'm always ready to separate in the case of conflict, but I've been lucky in that I've seen very little over the years.

And, of course, you can end up with issues as you introduce nests and they go into breeding mode. So that's always a time to watch out.

The chart Lacybug posted is a great reference to use. Society finches and owl finches in my experience have done well with my zebras.

With many thanks for this advice - next step is the outside aviary with a section for the winter also. I can't wait...