The Australian zebra finch or chestnut-eared finch (Taeniopygia castanotis)

The life expectancy of an Australian zebra finch is highly variable because of genetic and environmental factors. The zebra finch may reach up to five years in its natural environment. If they are kept caged, they normally live for 5 to 9 years but may live as long as 12 years, with an exceptional case of 14.5 years reported for a caged specimen.The greatest threats to captive zebra finch survival are predation by cats and loss of natural food.