Gouldian finch  (Erythrura gouldiae)

Biology

Gouldian finches forage in upright grasses on semi-ripe to ripe seeds. They also feed on a variety of insects including beetles, termites, flies, flying ants, and spiders, and even pick out the insects caught in spiders’ webs! (4)

Pairs nest in tree-hollows, with courtship taking place on a tree limb (5). Males commence the courtship ritual with head bobbing, beak-wiping and ruffling his feathers to display his brilliant colours. He holds his body and tail erect, expands his chest and fluffs the forehead feathers. The female may also follow with some beak-wiping, and copulation takes place in the nest. Both parents brood over the nest the following day and, after the female lays her eggs and they hatch, both parents raise the young (4). Gouldian finches may produce up to 3 broods in succession, with 4-8 eggs per clutch (4).

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