Black-throated Finch

The Black-throated Finch, also known as the Parson Finch, is a small bird of the estrildid finch family, measuring approximately 10 cm in length. It is characterized by its striking black bill, lores, and throat, which contrast sharply with its pale grey head. The wings, breast, and belly exhibit a pale pinkish-brown hue, while the short tail is black. Notably, the rump coloration differs between subspecies, with northern forms displaying a black rump and southern forms a white rump.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Black-throated Finch, look for the distinct black throat patch and facial markings. The bill is short and black, and the bird's overall plumage is a blend of grey and pale pinkish-brown. The tail is short and black. The northern subspecies, Poephila cincta atropygialis, has a black rump, whereas the southern subspecies, Poephila cincta cincta, features a white rump.

Habitat

This species inhabits grassy woodlands, often found near water sources such as rivers. It prefers open forested areas where grasses are abundant.

Distribution

The Black-throated Finch is native to north-east Australia, ranging from the Cape York Peninsula to central Queensland. The southern subspecies is endangered and has become extinct in New South Wales, while the northern subspecies is not currently listed as threatened.

Behaviour

These finches are typically observed in flocks of up to 30 individuals. They exhibit close pair bonds and may form loose groups during breeding. They forage around their nesting sites and may congregate at water sources during drought. The species is sedentary or locally nomadic, depending on local and seasonal conditions.

Song & Calls

The Black-throated Finch's vocalizations are similar to those of its sister species, the Long-tailed Finch, but are lower in tone and slightly less simple in harmonic structures. Up to twelve distinct calls have been identified, with variations between subspecies.

Breeding

Breeding occurs from September to January in the southern range and after the monsoon season in the north. The nest is a round structure of dried grasses with a tube-like entrance, typically placed high in a eucalypt. Clutches consist of four to six matte white oval eggs.

Similar Species

The Long-tailed Finch (Poephila acuticauda) is similar in appearance but can be distinguished by its longer tail and different vocalizations.

Diet and Feeding

The Black-throated Finch primarily consumes seeds from various grass species, as well as spiders and ants. They forage on the ground for fallen seeds and may also harvest seeds directly from plants. During the breeding season, they hunt flying termites and learn to remove the wings before consumption.

Conservation status

The southern subspecies, Poephila cincta cincta, is listed as "Endangered" under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. The decline in population is attributed to habitat loss due to pastoralism, changes in fire regimes, and increases in native woody weeds. Conservation efforts include a national management plan and monitoring of population densities.