Order Passeriformes Genus Neochmia Higher classification Neochmia | Phylum Chordata Family Estrildidae Scientific name Neochmia ruficauda Rank Species | |
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Similar Bird, Neochmia, Estrildid finch, Double‑barred finch, Long‑tailed finch | ||
Star finches
The star finch (Neochmia ruficauda) is a species of estrildid finch found in Australia. It inhabits dry grassland and dry savannah habitats.
Contents
Star finch
Subspecies
It has three subspecies:
Threats
The habitat of the star finch is threatened by overgrazing of grasslands, removing essential cover for their survival as well as sources of food and water. Selective grazing of perennials during the wet season may also remove grasses that are needed for survival during the dry season. Burning of grassland during the dry season may reduce the fallen seed during the wet season and thus reduce the food supply needed by the star finch. This species is also threatened by the cage-bird trade.
Availability
The star finch is a common aviary bird. This species has mutations such as the yellow and cinnamon varieties.
Origin
Origin and phylogeny has been obtained by Antonio Arnaiz-Villena et al. Estrildinae may have originated in India and dispersed thereafter (towards Africa and Pacific Ocean habitats).
