The crimson finch (Neochmia phaeton) is a species of bird in the family Estrildidae. It is found throughout Northern Australia as well as parts of southern New Guinea. Crimson finches feature a distinctively bright crimson coat and are known for their aggression.
Taxonomy and systematics
Hombron and Jacquinot first observed crimson finches at Raffles Bay in northern Australia in 1841. Its protonym is Fringilla phaeton.
"Crimson finch" has been designated as the official common name for the species by the International Ornithologists' Union (IOC). Alternate names include "blood finch" and "killer finch", derived from its tendency for aggressive behavior towards other red birds.
The crimson finch belongs to the family Estrildidae. Two subspecies are recognised: the black-bellied crimson finch (Neochmia p. phaeton) and its white-bellied counterpart (Neochmia p. evangelinae). A related species is the star finch (Neochmia ruficauda). It also bears resemblance to birds of the genus Lagonosticta (firefinches), to which it is closely related. Common physical characteristics between crimson finches and firefinches include a red head and bright crimson coat.
Description
The crimson finch is a relatively small-sized bird. It is about 13 cm in length and weighs just 13g (0.46 oz). Standout features include a bright crimson color, long tail, and white specks that run across the sides of its body. There are also shades of grey around the neck area. This species is sexually dimorphic as the females are slightly paler in color. However, the same plumage is observed for both sexes.
A difference between males and females is that males have longer tails and bills. In addition, they are larger and heavier. Three weeks after fledging, crimson finches moult into adult plumage. The moult is only partial as juvenile greater primary coverts are preserved.
Distribution and habitat
Crimson finches are mainly distributed across Northern Australia with some residing in New Guinea. They are common in the...
