Ask Lafeber

Zebra finch markings

How come some zebra finches have orange cheeks, while others have mustard yellow, and some have black?

Hi Taymia,

As with any animal, genetic mutations can occur that affect the appearance. With birds that breed easily in captivity, breeders will try to breed to get these mutations. This is why birds like Cockatiels, Lovebirds, parakeets, zebra finches, Green cheek conures and a few other species come in a variety of colors in captivity. There are a number of Zebra finch color mutations and depending on the color, the cheek patch color will vary.

Thank you for asking Lafeber,

Brenda