When it comes to keeping pet finches, the question of whether or not to provide a nest is a common one. I have personally been keeping finches for several years now, and I have found that unless you are specifically looking to have your birds breed, there is no need to provide a nest for them.
One of the main reasons for this is that many finches, such as Gouldians, do not actually sleep in nests at night. They prefer to perch on branches or other elevated spots in their cage. So, even if you were to provide a nest, they would likely not use it for sleeping purposes.
On the other hand, some finches, like society finches, do enjoy sleeping in nests. They will often pile into a nest together, creating a cozy and communal sleeping space. However, if you are not interested in breeding your finches, it is best to avoid providing a nest altogether.
By not providing a nest, you can effectively prevent your finches from breeding. Nests are often seen as a sign to finches that it is time to mate and raise chicks. Without a nest, your finches are less likely to engage in breeding behaviors.
Of course, if you are interested in breeding your finches, providing a nest is essential. It will give your birds a safe and comfortable place to lay their eggs and raise their young. In this case, it is important to choose a suitable nest that is appropriate for the size and species of your finches.
If you do not want your pet finches to breed, it is not necessary to provide a nest for them. Many finches, such as Gouldians, do not sleep in nests at night, and even those that do, like society finches, can be discouraged from breeding by not providing a nest. However, if breeding is your goal, a suitable nest should be provided to ensure the well-being of your finches and their offspring.