Owl finch: incubation period, weaning age and breeding
Owl finch eggs hatch after 12–14 days of incubation. Chicks fledge at 20–22 days and are weaned and independent at about 35–42 days. A typical clutch is 4–6 eggs.
Breeding numbers
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Adult weight (g) | 8-10 |
| Length (cm) | 10-11 |
| Clutch size | 4-6 |
| Incubation (days) | 12-14 |
| Fledging (days) | 20-22 |
| Weaning / independence (days) | 35-42 |
| Breeding age (maturity) | 9–12 months |
| Lifespan (years) | 5-8 |
| Breeding season | Spring/autumn; avoid disturbance |
| Sexing | Monomorphic; cock sings; DNA recommended. |
Origin: Northern and eastern Australia — Scientific name: Taeniopygia bichenovii
Size: 10-11 cm
Breeding and care tips
Sensitive to cold and disturbance; needs live food and egg food while rearing. Breeds best in quiet planted flights.
Mutations and colours
Mutations Zajel calculates: Fawn. Named only (not confirmed or polygenic — not used in the calculation): Black-rumped (ssp. annulosa).
Zajel's genetics lab predicts chick colours from both parents for established mutations only; disputed ones are shown with a note and left out of the calculation.
Need the exact date? Use the egg hatch calculator and the weaning age chart.
Related species
- Budgerigar
- Canary
- Zebra finch
- Red-headed finch
- Gouldian finch
- Bengalese society finch
- Java sparrow
- Star finch
Frequently asked questions
How long do Owl finch eggs take to hatch?
Owl finch eggs hatch after 12-14 days of incubation.
How many eggs does a Owl finch lay?
Usually 4-6 eggs per clutch.
When do Owl finch chicks leave the nest?
Chicks fledge at about 20-22 days old.
When are Owl finch chicks weaned?
They are weaned and independent at about 35-42 days.
At what age can a Owl finch breed?
A Owl finch reaches breeding age at about 9–12 months; pairing earlier is not advised.
What is the Owl finch breeding season?
Spring/autumn; avoid disturbance
How do you tell a male Owl finch from a female?
Monomorphic; cock sings; DNA recommended.
How long does a Owl finch live?
About 5-8 years with good care.