DESCRIPTION 5 1/2 inches (14cm). Steel-blue body with black head and tail, white cheeks, pink eye ring and beak, which is very large. Eyes brown, legs flesh-coloured. Female smaller with narrower crown, more tapered and duller bill. Several mutations have been developed, including white, pied (calico) and brown or black-headed.

NATURAL DISTRIBUTION Java, Bali and neighbouring islands; introduced into Sri Lanka, southern Burma, Zanzibar, St Helena and other places.

HABITAT The Java Sparrow is found in rice and bamboo fields, in large flocks.

DIET Canary and millet seeds, millet sprays,
green food and some soft food.

SPECIAL NEEDS Keepingjava sparrows in captivity is illegal in some parts of the United States because escaped birds could seriously threaten agriculture. If aviary is peaceful (only a few other inhabitants), may breed throughout the year, which could lead to egg-binding problems. Limit breeding period from May to July and no more than four clutches per season.

CAGE LIFE The Java Sparrow makes ideal aviary inhabitants. Male stretches out neck and makes unusual bubbly noise. Prefer half-open nest boxes, 12 X 10 X 10 inches (30 X 25 X 25cm) or beechwood blocks, entrance diameter 2 inches (5cm). Do not hang too close together to avoid fighting. Lay 3 to 5 eggs, incubation 12 to 15 days, fledging 26 to 28 days