Crimson Finch

Neochmia phaeton (Hombron & Jacquinot, 1841)

Crimson Finch, Neochmia phaeton, is a passerine of the Estrildidae family that breeds in south-eastern New Guinea and northern Australia. It is a bird of tall, thick grass, usually close to wetlands with riparian growth and Pandanus, and it also uses shrubs, dry brush and hollow limbs for nesting. Its most striking feature is its bright crimson plumage, with a long tail and pale speckling along the sides. The species is noted for strong aggression, especially in males, and females may also defend nests in the same way.

Order

Passeriformes

Family

Estrildidae — Waxbills, Munias & Allies

Breeding range

Australasia: sc New Guinea and n Australia