Gouldian Finch
A species of Parrot-finches Scientific name : Chloebia gouldiae Genus : Parrot-finches
Gouldian Finch, A species of Parrot-finches
Botanical name: Chloebia gouldiae
Genus: Parrot-finches
Content
Description General Info
Photo By A5A750BH , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Both sexes are brightly coloured with black, green, yellow, and red markings. The females tend to be less brightly coloured. One major difference between the sexes is that the male's chest is purple, while the female's is a lighter mauve. Gouldian finches are about 125–140 mm long. Gouldian finches' heads may be red, black, or yellow. Formerly considered three different kinds of finches, it is now known that these are colour variants that exist in the wild. Selective breeding has also developed mutations (blue, yellow and silver instead of a green back) in both body and breast colour. There are several "prominent rounded tubercles" with an "opalescent lustre" at the back of the gape. These tubercles are commonly (and incorrectly) described as phosphorescent in spite of much scientific evidence to the contrary. It is believed that these tubercles simply reflect light and are not luminescent. 
Size
15 cm
Life Expectancy
6-8 years
Feeding Habits
Gouldian Finch primarily feed on a variety of grass seeds, particularly half-ripe and mature sorghum. They occasionally supplement their diet with other seeds and insects, showcasing a preference for certain seed types while also displaying opportunistic feeding behaviors.
Habitat
Gouldian Finch typically inhabits semi-arid regions characterized by grassy open forests and woodlands. These areas display a mix of burnt and unburnt woodland near spear-grass, cockatoo grass, golden beard grass, and spinifex, often in proximity to water sources. High densities of tree cavities are essential for gouldian Finch, as it relies on them for nesting. Its preferred breeding habitat includes rocky hills with smooth-barked gums, generally within two to four kilometers of permanent water bodies like small waterholes or springs.
Dite type
Granivorous
General Info
Behavior
Outside the breeding season, Gouldian finches often join mixed flocks consisting of long-tailed finches and masked finches. Flocks can consist of up to 1,000–2,000 individuals. During the breeding season, they are normally found on rough scree slopes where vegetation is sparse. In the dry season, they are much more nomadic and will move to wherever their food and water can be found.
Distribution Area
Prior to the Australian government's ban on the export of Australian fauna, Gouldian finches were exported worldwide. These birds have resulted in viable breeding populations being held in many countries. Captive breeding has resulted in several colour mutations. Mutations vary by country, with some existing only in Australia (the Australian yellow and the Australian "dilute") and others existing in greater number in the United States, such as the blue bodied Gouldian. The most common body mutations in the United States are blue, pastel green (single and double-factor, resulting in "dilute" and yellow males and yellow females), and pastel blue (again, single and double-factor producing "pastel" and silver males, and silver hens). There is also a lutino and albino mutation in the United States, established by Winnie McAlpin of Delmar Aviaries.
Species Status
The number of Gouldian finches has decreased quite dramatically during the 20th century. Their habitat has been reduced or altered. Early research indicated a parasite called the air sac mite was responsible for the decline of the species. This is no longer considered to be a major factor. In general, Gouldian finches are susceptible to diseases and viral infections. Their beautiful colours mean that they are easily caught by predators. Fires are listed as the primary threat to the natural populations.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Birds Order
Perching birds Family
Estrildid finches Genus
Parrot-finches Species
Gouldian Finch 
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