Red-browed Finch

The Red-browed Finch, Neochmia temporalis, is a small and vibrant estrildid finch native to the east coast of Australia. This charming bird is easily recognized by its striking red eyebrow stripe and rump, contrasting with its predominantly grey plumage, olive wing coverts, and collar. Adults measure a petite 11–12 cm in length.

Identification Tips

Look for the bright red stripe above the eye and the red rump to identify this species. The body is mainly grey, with olive touches on the wing coverts and collar. Juveniles can be distinguished by the absence of the red brow marks and the lack of olive coloration on the collar and wing coverts.

Habitat

The Red-browed Finch is commonly found in temperate forests and dry savannahs. It also inhabits dry forests and mangroves in tropical regions.

Distribution

This species graces the east coast of Australia and has been introduced to French Polynesia. It is prevalent in the southeast of its range, from Brisbane to Melbourne.

Behaviour

Red-browed Finches are highly sociable birds, often seen in small flocks of 10 to 20. These flocks are either sedentary or nomadic within their local area. They prefer semi-open woodlands, especially at the edges of forests near creeks.

Song & Calls

The finch emits short, high-pitched cheeps that are particularly piping. When alarmed, the flock disperses with a chorus of cheeps, only to reconvene nearby.

Breeding

These finches build large domed nests with side entrances, woven from grass and small twigs, typically 2–3 metres above ground in dense shrubs. Nesting is a communal effort, with both parents sharing the responsibilities of building, incubation, and feeding. They lay four to six white eggs per clutch, with up to three clutches per year from October to April. Juveniles gain independence within 28 days.

Similar Species

In southwest Australia, the Red-browed Finch may be confused with the Red-eared Firetail, Stagonopleura oculata.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists mainly of grass and sedge seeds, although they will consume various non-native seeds. They are known to enter large-mesh aviaries to feed on seed when given the opportunity.

Conservation Status

The Red-browed Finch is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. There are no significant threats to the species, although competition from the introduced Nutmeg Mannikin in northern Queensland may pose a minor threat. Habitat clearance and grazing, especially during drought, can lead to local declines or disappearances.