how to tell when in breeding condition...

[isibee]

Hi there, I just got the cutest Bengali Zebra finches. I know they are a couple.

I am used to breeding budgies but finches are different, how can I tell when the female is ready. Are the females like budgies with their ceres?
Also how can I tell how old they are?

Any tips will help.

Thanks

***isibee***

[atarasi]

Zebras will breed at the drop of a hat!
Unless they still have their juvenille plumage, it would be hard to tell their age. Some species will be in breeding condition when their beaks turn a different color, or when they are in breeding plumage. Not with Zebras though. Zebras are like little Gremlins, who are just waiting to breed non-stop.

[mickp]

one thing I noticed when I had zebras was that their beak color got brighter when they were in breeding condition

[poohbear]

Wait till hen on perch....does she look healthy???

28 days later are there lots of little 'look-a-likes' on the perch next to her???

Yes....she was in breeding condition.

Paul.

[isibee]

ok let s say they did mate, how long after the mating game I could see some eggs...what kind of nest is better?

How long before they are hatched and weaned?
Do they need egg food just like budgies?

thanks

[Sally]

The FIC, linked at left, can answer all your questions. Be sure to read the species info on Zebras, there is a chart there that gives a timeline for breeding.