Beautiful Firetail
NameBeautiful Firetail
Common NameBeautiful Firetail
Scientific NameStagonopleura bella
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)12
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsThis species has olive-brown upperparts and finely barred grey underparts. A prominent black mask surrounds the eye, bordered by a pale blue-white eye-ring. The bill is bright pinkish-red with a small black spot at the tip, and the most striking feature is its brilliant red rump and uppertail coverts.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a soft, mournful, and somewhat drawn-out 'weep' or 'twee', often repeated. It also has a soft 'tlit-tlit' contact call.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southeastern Australia, including Tasmania and the islands of Bass Strait. It is found along the coastal strip and adjacent ranges from Newcastle, New South Wales, south through Victoria and into South Australia.
Identifying FeaturesBright red rump, Black facial mask, Finely barred grey underparts, Pinkish-red bill with black tip, Pale blue-white eye-ring
Description
The Beautiful Firetail is a small, stocky finch characterized by its distinctive bright red rump and black facial mask. It is often found foraging on the ground in coastal heaths and forests, typically in pairs or small groups.
