Ask Lafeber

Toys for zebra finches?

Hello- Do zebra finches need bird toys, and what types of toys should I provide them? I currently just give my zebra finches some tissue and pieces of hay, and they pick up and play with these a bit.

Hi,

Finches actually enjoy toys! Look for the inexpensive colorful, lightweight plastic toys they make for parakeets. Since finches do not chew, you don’t need to find sturdy toys. Some brands that make the old style parakeet toys are Bonka Bird Toys, JW Pet(Check Amazon) and Penn Plax. One toy, sometimes called Olympic rings, is just 5 rings that hang vertically, sometimes with a bell at the end, and finches will sit in the rings. They also like mirrors, bells, & swings. Try hanging a ladder from the top of the cage, and they will usually sit between the rungs and treat it like a swing. Toys can keep them active and give them something to do besides trying to nest. I’d avoid giving them the hay and paper, because this is something that they would use for nesting material, and then all they want to do is nest. Plus these are not good for them to have for nesting material. When you do add toys, add one at a time so you don’t overwhelm them. Once they get used to it, add another. Soon they will be going from toy to toy and getting more exercise!

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda