The birding class is the most colorful in the animal world. In addition, color distribution in birds varies a lot, from blending into harmonic pictures to differently colored shapes on their plumage. Coming from Australia, the Gouldian finch (Chloebia gouldiae), also known as the Lady Gouldian finch, Gould’s finch, or the rainbow finch, is a colorful passerine bird that looks like a flying artist pallete.
Source: Marc Gardner, Buntine Hwy, Victoria-Daly, Northern Territory, Australia
The species was named after British ornithological artist John Gould. Both sexes are brightly colored with black, green, yellow, and red markings. The females tend to be less brightly colored. Besides, the male can be differentiated from the female by its purple chest, while the female has a lighter mauve one.
Source: Marc Gardner, Buntine Hwy, Victoria-Daly, Northern Territory, Australia
Source: Laurie Ross | Tracks Birding & Photography Tours
Gouldian finches are susceptible to diseases and viral infections. Their beautiful colors make them easier to get caught by predators. Like other finches, the Gouldian finch is a seed eater. They eat up to 30% of their body weight each day.
Source: Kym Nicolson, Alexander Forrest Cairn Rest Area (Birdum), Roper Gulf, Northern Territory, Australia
Source: Marc Gardner, Roper Gulf, Northern Territory, Australia
The Gouldian finch inhabits grassy open woodlands across northeastern Western Australia, the Top End of the Northern Territory, and parts of northern Queensland. Individuals were traded before the Australian government’s ban on the export of Australian fauna.
Source: Marc Gardner, Roper Gulf, Northern Territory, Australia
Gouldian finches make their nests in tree holes. They usually breed in the early part of the dry season with plenty of food around. Both parents help brood the eggs during the daytime, and the female watches the eggs at night. The younglings call loudly when the parent birds return so that they can find and feed their mouths in the dark nest.
Source: Dennis Jarvis
IUCN Red List marks this species as near-threatened. They’re still trapped to purchase because of their striking colors and low care requirements. They are also friendly with other birds and domestic animals.
Source: Laurie Boyl
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