Zebra Finch
Image: Matt Campbell (cc-by-nc)
NameZebra Finch
Common NameZebra Finch
Scientific NameTaeniopygia guttata
FamilyEstrildidae
Wingspan (cm)11
Length (cm)10
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsMales have a grey head, bright orange cheek patches, black and white 'zebra' barring on the throat and upper breast, and chestnut flanks with white spots. Their back and wings are brown, and they have a red-orange conical beak. Females are duller, mostly grey-brown with a paler belly and a red-orange beak, lacking the male's distinctive markings.
Vocalization / CallZebra Finches have a variety of short, sharp 'tett' or 'tsee' calls used for contact and alarm. Males are known for their complex, repetitive, and highly variable song, which is often described as a series of 'meep' notes, trills, and buzzes.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, shrubland, savanna, arid regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across most of mainland Australia, avoiding the humid coastal areas. Also found on the Lesser Sunda Islands.
Identifying FeaturesOrange cheek patches (males), Black and white zebra-like barring on throat/chest (males), Chestnut flanks with white spots (males), Bright red-orange conical beak, Small size, Gregarious behavior
Description
The Zebra Finch is a small, highly social finch native to Australia, known for its striking plumage and distinctive vocalizations. They are often found in large flocks, foraging on the ground for seeds in arid and semi-arid environments.
