Crimson Finch

The Crimson Finch, Neochmia phaeton, is a small, vibrant bird with a striking crimson plumage. It measures approximately 13 cm in length and weighs a mere 13 grams. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females displaying a slightly paler hue than their male counterparts. Both sexes share the characteristic white speckling along their flanks, with males boasting longer tails and bills, and a touch of grey around their necks.

Identification Tips

To identify the Crimson Finch, look for its bright crimson coloration, long tail, and the distinctive white spots on its body. The males are generally larger and heavier than the females and have more pronounced tail and bill lengths. Juveniles can be recognized by their partially molted plumage, retaining their juvenile greater primary coverts.

Habitat

This species thrives in areas with tall, dense grasses, often found near wetlands adorned with Pandanus trees. They construct their nests in shrubs and dry brush at the base of these trees or within hollow tree limbs.

Distribution

The Crimson Finch is predominantly found across Northern Australia and parts of southern New Guinea. It is a common sight in the Kimberley region of Northwest Australia, though less prevalent in Queensland to the Northeast.

Behaviour

The Crimson Finch is known for its aggressive disposition, earning it nicknames such as "blood finch" and "killer finch." Males exhibit hostility towards both conspecifics and other species, with no discrimination based on age, coloration, or size. Females may also display aggression when defending their nests.

Breeding

Monogamy is the primary mating system for Crimson Finches, with breeding pairs often nesting in close quarters to one another. They favor nesting sites central to riparian vegetation and rivers. Notably, they produce large clutch sizes, possibly as an adaptive response to high rates of nest predation by reptiles.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Crimson Finch mainly consists of grass seeds, such as those from Xerochloa imberbis, and occasionally insects. They are granivores by nature.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List categorizes the Crimson Finch as "Least Concern." The population is currently stable without significant threats, although their habitat has experienced vulnerability due to flooding from dam construction. Nevertheless, they have shown remarkable adaptability, maintaining unaffected nesting and breeding success.