What is the distinct beak color observed in young Zebra Finches before maturity?
Answer
Black
The juvenile plumage of Zebra Finches closely resembles that of the adult female, showing generally muted colors. However, a key distinguishing factor for birds under approximately 90 days old, before they achieve full adult coloration, is their beak color. Unlike the orange of the female or the red of the mature male, young Zebra Finches possess beaks that are distinctly black. The full development of adult sexual dimorphism, including the final adult beak coloration, usually solidifies around the time the birds reach three months of age.
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