Zebra Finches are easy to care for and that includes when they are breeding. The little birds are great pets due their quirky little personalities,

When creating the ideal aviary or cage for your finches remember that as small as they are they're very energetic and need space to move. They are made to fly long distances so this must be taken into consideration when building their home. For the benefit of their health and wellbeing they must not be kept in an environment that is too small or suffocating.

You have two options when it comes to an aviary or cage for your finches, purchasing one or building one;

Constructing one is usually the cheaper option and most of the tools can be found close to home; such as a hammer, nails, staple gun, saw, barbed wire, sandpaper, wire screening and lumber.
• Make the lumber splinter free by sanding it down.
• Create the front, back and sides by building frames.
• Stretch the mesh over each of them.
• Screw all the parts together.
• You now have the basics of an aviary.

If not an aviary for your finches then a cage for your is a good alternative. Remember don't purchase a cage that is too small, and don't overcrowd the cage with too many birds; remember space is essential to their health.

A 'Flight bird cages' is another idea. They are made for birds that need to move a lot. They are a lot taller and wider than other cages and are made to house more birds in the one space. They come with several feeders and perches. You can have more than two finches in a flight bird cage but don't forget the issue of space.

When it comes to accessories stick only to what is needed;
• Finch feeders for food and water.
• Dishes for bathing and for treats and grit.
• Perches of different sizes depending on the size of the aviary or cage. Perches are good for your finches feet and for keeping their toe nails trimmed.
• For the bottom of the cage use either grit paper or paper sprinkled with grit.
• An optional extra is a 'bird protector' disk on the side of the cage. This is great for protecting them from mites.
• A great idea is to give them a nest box for them to sleep in at night.
• However you choose to create their home, remember it should have ventilation, be draft free and in a well lit area but away from direct sunlight.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. There are many other resources available to help you in the form of eBooks, websites, online articles and pet stores.

Creating a good aviary or cage for your finches is essential to their health, and usually affordable depending on how you approach it. They have minimal demands and will offer you lots of leisure time in return. They are small yet sturdy and tend to live a long time. Due to their endless energy, cheery bird song and beautiful colours they offer all finch enthusiasts' hours of amusement and entertainment.