How to Breed Australian Finches

Australian finches are made up of 18 various species known for their beauty and outstanding plumage. They are a moderately easy finch to breed. An Australian finch will typically produce between four to seven eggs per brood. A few of the species are more difficult to breed then others. Finches tend to be peaceful and can be kept in colonies, but for breeding purposes birds should be divided into pairs that are housed alone.

Things You'll Need

  • Nest boxes
  • Dried grass
  • Coconut fiber
  • Bowls
  • Millet
  • Grass seeds
  • Sprouted seeds
  • Niger seeds
  • Cuttlebone
  • Grit
  • Bowls
  • Large cage or aviary
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Instructions

    • 1

      Divide the birds into pairs when they reach four months old. Place each pair in their own large cage or aviary. Breeding will not begin until the birds reach nine months of age. The males will begin to sing frequently to the female. They will sway and dance in front of her to attract her attention. In a few of the Australian finch species the beaks will change color as the birds prepare for breeding. Finches may become more active and fun-filled right before breeding takes place.

    • 2

      Hang nest boxes in cages and aviaries when the birds begin to reach sexual maturity. Provide ample amounts of various dried grasses, small twigs and coconut fiber for the Australian finches to build their nests.

    • 3

      Feed a mixture of millet, grass seeds and niger. Sprouted seeds can also be provided. Provide a bowl of abundant grit. Attach a cuttlebone to the side of the cage to provide needed calcium. Maintain fresh water at all times.

    • 4

      Watch for eggs to be laid up to a month after pairing birds up. Eggs will usually hatch 12 to 16 days after incubation.

    • 5

      Do not touch the nest. If the nest is disturbed, the eggs handled, or the young touched the parent finches may desert the nest and babies completely.

    • 6

      Breed the Australian finches up to three times in a row and then the birds should ready for the molt. Separate the male from the female and remove the nest box. This gives both the female and the male a much-needed rest as they molt. The molt lasts approximately six weeks and then the birds can again be readied for another breeding cycle.