I'm only just over a year into having Zebra Finches...I have 2 boys, both have the black bars across the chest, it's been nice not having to worry about the egg laying thing. I will say I think out of all the birds I have ever had (budgies, cockatiels, cockatoo, caique, pionus) I think finches are the messiest. I like watching them fly, but they will probably be my last. They love the little tiny bells. (smaller than what you have in the cage) Named mine Oscar and Oliver. Congrats on your new birdies!