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Question
Should I provide nests for my birds?
Answer
Zebra finches will sleep in a nest all year round if one is available. For domesticated
zebra finches there is no difference between the two nest types (resting and breeding
nests). Allow one nest to each pair.
Personally, I don't provide nests for my birds out of the breeding season. Our captive
zebra finches are not subject to the same seasonal changes that wild zebras are, so there
is nothing to prevent them from breeding all year if they have a nest. In the long run
breeding constantly is bad for our birds and will shorten their lives considerably. My
recommendation is that if you are ready to let your birds breed and the birds are in good
health (remember, provide lots of calcium), then by all means do provide a nest. But once
they have bred three times consecutively remove the nest again for a few months. A few
pairs have been known to take breaks on their own, but in general, we have to stop them
from breeding themselves to death. (the alternative is to either separate males and
females, or provide poor quality food. First option is a recommended alternative, the
second is not for obvious ethical reasons).
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