Habitat
The Java Sparrow is a very expressive bird which feeds mainly on grain and other seeds. It frequentsly unlocks into grassland and cultivation, and was formerly a pest in rice fields, hence its scientific name.
Size
The Java Sparrow is about 15-17 cm in length from the beak to its tip of tail feathers. The adult is unmistakable, with its grey upperparts and breast, pink belly, white-cheeked black head, red eye-ring, pink feet and thick red bill.Both sexes are similar. Immature birds have brown upperparts and pale brown underparts, and a plain head. Very young birds have a black beak with a pink base.
Lifespan:
When properly cared for in captivity, Java Finches have been known to live for up to 10 years on average. Of course, some individuals have been reported to have lived even longer, a few into their late teens!
Characteristic:
Java Finches are social little birds, but are far too timid for direct human interaction. Instead, they thrive in pairs or small flocks kept within a flight cage. If you are thinking of adopting a Java Finch, then you may as well prepare yourself to take in at least two or even three. These birds cannot be kept singly and will become very depressed without another finch to keep them company!
Colors:
Normally colored Java Finches have gray backs, black heads and tailfeathers, grayish-cinnamon colored breasts and bellies, and large white patches on their cheeks. Some people say they remind them of tiny miniature penguins. They have bright reddish-orange beaks and bright orange skin on their legs and feet. Another distinguishing characteristic of the Java Finch is the thin orange ring around their eyes. Both males and females of the species display the same coloring on their plumage. Various color mutations of Java Finches are also available within the pet trade.
Feeding:
Although these birds became famous for eating rice in the wild, captive Java Finches prefer to eat a good, high quality seed mix. Many Java Finch owners report success feeding them seed mixes that are formulated for parakeets. For balanced nutrition, their diet should be supplemented with items such as nuts, grain, and finely chopped fresh bird-safe fruits and vegetables.
Exercise:
Java Finches, like all finch species, are extremely active little birds who seem to have endless amounts of energy. Because of this, and because they do not tolerate human handling, they must be provided with a tall flight cage so that they have room to fly, play, climb, jump, and exercise. These birds make ideal pets for people who don't have enough time to bond and interact with a parrot or other bird, because no out of cage playtime is required for them.
Java Finches as Pets:
Small, beautiful, and quiet, the adorable Java Finch has been popular as a cage and aviary bird for many years. Because these birds require a "hands off" approach to bird ownership, they are often hailed as wonderful choices for both very young and elderly bird owners. Their calming vocalizations and elegant in-cage flight maneuvers help put them among the most interesting small bird to keep and observe.
If you are interested in keeping pet Java Finches, it is important to do as much research as possible, and learn all that you can about these little birds. They are known to be a very hardy species and rarely fall ill if cared for properly, but as always, it is better to know too much about caring for them than too little!
Before bringing home a pair or small flock of Java Finches, talk to local breeders and gather their tips on how to provide the best home environment for these birds. You may even consider joining your local aviculture society or bird club so that you can learn from the experiences of other members. As long as you are committed to providing the best possible care for your Java Finches, you will surely be rewarded with healthy, happy pets who are very fun to watch and listen to.
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