Long-tailed Finch
NameLong-tailed Finch
Common NameLong-tailed Finch
Scientific NamePoephila acuticauda
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsFeatures a grey head with white cheeks, a prominent black throat patch, and a bright orange-red conical bill. The upperparts and flanks are reddish-brown, contrasting with a pale belly, black rump, and a very long, pointed black central tail feather.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, high-pitched "teet" or "tew" notes, often delivered as a soft trill or whistle. They also have a distinctive contact call.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to northern Australia, extending from the Kimberley region of Western Australia across the Top End of the Northern Territory to northwestern Queensland.
Identifying Featureslong pointed black tail, grey head, black throat patch, orange-red beak, reddish-brown body
Description
A small, striking finch characterized by its grey head, black throat patch, and a distinctive long, pointed black tail. It is typically found foraging on the ground in dry grasslands and open woodlands, often in small flocks.
