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Double-barred FinchAlternative names: "Banded Finch", "Double-bar", "White-rumped Double-bar", "White-rumped Banded Finch", "Owl-faced Finch", "Bicheno's Finch" |
Sightings
At the place where we lived in 2003-2006, Double-barred Finches visit us regularly in flocks of 10 to 20. They are a gregarious little bunch that searches for seeds in the lawn and paddocks.
Although they only occasionally stay at the place where we live since 2007, 20 km east of Narrabri, we have found them to be permanent residents in the adjacent bushland, on the fringes of Mount Kaputar National Park. There we see and hear them regularly, also during the winter months.
Very easily identified by their call and appearance. Note that the breast and belly below the upper black bar are not white, but a light cream colour, as can be seen quite clearly in several photos below.
Photos
Double-barred Finches on our lawn (click on image for larger version)
Lateral view of a Double-barred Finch (click on image for larger version)
Close-up shot of a Double-barred Finch feeding on the ground (click on image for larger version)
This view of the back of a bird shows how glossy the plumage can appear with the sunlight at a certain angle (click on image for larger version)
Double-barred Finch checking out the area before moving in for a drink from a water bowl (click on image for larger version)
"The seven dwarfs" - Double-barred Finches huddled together at the end of a cold night in August 2006 (click on image for larger version)
Double-barred Finch taking a good mouthful
Nest
Double-barred Finch nest in a bush (click on image for larger version)
Habits
Double-barred Finches belong to those birds that squat in a pool to take a bath and then wiggle their wings to spatter themselves with water.
Double-barred Finches taking a bath (click on image for larger version)