How to Breed Spice Finches

Spice finches, also referred to as nutmeg mannikins, are small birds with a heavy bill and sleek brown feathers on the head, back and tail. The breast and flank feathers are white with dark brown edges. Spice finches come from Asia and are commonly kept as pets. They can be housed along with other similar-sized finch species in a community flock. They are very hardy and are among the easiest of finches to breed in captivity, making a good starter bird for the novice breeder.

Things You'll Need

  • At least one bonded pair of spice finches
  • Large enclosure
  • Nesting boxes or baskets
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare the enclosure for your breeding pair. Ensure the bird's enclosure is roomy. The cage should be at least 3 feet long. The bigger the better. Provide plenty of cover for the birds to escape from being observed.

    • 2

      Ensure that the enclosure will be lit for at least 12 hours per day. This lighting will stimulate breeding behavior by convincing the birds that it's summer and breeding season.

    • 3

      Provide nesting boxes or baskets that are well camouflaged within the enclosure. Place materials, such as long grass blades and stems and coconut fiber, for the birds to use in constructing nests. The birds will also line the nest with softer materials, including moss and feathers.

    • 4

      Purchase young birds that will form strong pair bonds, if possible. Because male and female spice finches are indistinguishable by sight, it's a good idea to buy several birds to improve your chances of building pair bonds.

    • 5

      Provide balanced nutrition for your birds. Buy a good seed blend for finches, available at any pet supply store. Soaked or sprouted seeds can also be provided to add variety. For protein, add nestling food, pelletized food or egg food, also available at your pet store. Also ensure your finches have cuttlebones available for minerals. Green foods, such as kale or romaine lettuce, are also good.

    • 6

      Observe the behavior of the birds to determine the sex. Males will sing more than females. The male may also perform little dances around the female, stretching his neck and turning his head from side to side.

    • 7

      Observe the birds for breeding behavior. Pairing off and nest building are good indicators that breeding is occurring.

    • 8

      Once a nest is built, observe it for eggs. The female will lay from three to seven small eggs. Incubation time is about two to three weeks. The chicks will be independent of the parents around two to three weeks after they are fledged out.