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Star Finch

Bathilda ruficauda
Conservation Status: 
Least Concern
Range: 
Australia
Habitat: 
Grassland, Savannah, Towns

Star Finches have a varied diet consisting of grass seeds, small insects, and seasonal fruits. In their natural habitat, Star Finches forage on the ground or in low vegetation, using their small, pointed beaks to extract seeds and insects from grasses and plants.

They are known to form small flocks, usually consisting of family groups or pairs. They sing soft songs that help them with flock communication and courtship.

During breeding season, male Star Finches display their vibrant colors and engage in elaborate courtship displays to attract females. One courtship display is to hold a large piece of grass and stand on a branch.

Once a pair bond is formed, the female builds a cup-shaped nest using grass, leaves, and twigs, typically in low shrubs or trees. The female then lays a clutch of 3 to 5 white eggs, which are incubated by both parents for about 12 to 14 days. The chicks are able to leave the nest after about 21 days.

Star Finches are listed as Least Concern, because the overall population has a large range and stable population. However, some local populations are declining.

 

@birdkingdom