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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
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