Common Names: Star Finches
This pair is the Yellow face mutation
Mutations: The different species of Star Finches can be identified by their coloring. Some have yellow, “pumpkin” faces, while others have blotches with no pigmentation. There are also fawn-colored Star Finches. Their color is usually light brown.
Overview: A typical Star Finch possesses a red face. In males, the redness extends beyond their cheeks. As far as body color, for most species, it is green with a beige-colored underbelly. Star-like formations decorate the crown of the animal’s head. It also dark eyes and a reddish beak. In terms of size, most species are 4.5 inches.
Place of Origin: The Star Finch comes from Northern Australia.
Gender Differences: The sexual differences of the Star Finch are easily identified once the animal becomes an adult. Males tend to have a reddish mask on their face, while the females have very little coloring. Also, female Star Finches have more “stars” underneath their mandibles (which are right above their beige-colored stomachs). In contrast, males usually have a yellowish stomach.
Food: These birds do pretty well with finch mixes. Unlike traditional bird food, finch mixes contain a healthier variety of millet & canary seeds such as Paradise Pet Products Premium Finch Blend.
For snacks, Star Finches can eat many different foods, ranging from kale to grated carrots. The bird can also be given a supplement for optimal nutrition. These supplements can be placed in their water or food. In the meantime, the bird should have access to cuttlebones, grit material and water.
Care: Star Finches are very easy to raise, but you will have to trim their nails periodically.
Personality: The Star Finch is a very peaceful bird. Not only are they friendly to humans, but they are also friendly with other birds. This includes both their species and other species of fowl. The only catch is that the other species must not be aggressive. If they are, the Star Finch will follow its instinct to defend itself.
Housing Concerns: Cages or aviaries can be used to house the Star Finch. You just have to make sure that you house them with birds that also possess a friendly temperament. As for breeding, this works best when there is a pair for each cage. Planted flights can be another option. Also, regardless of whether you breed the birds, they will need to be in temperatures that are at least 55 degrees. For breeding, the temperature should be between 70 and 75 degrees.
Songs: The male Star Finch has a very pleasant song. Before he starts tweeting, he will puff out his feathers and then lean his body forward. His throat warbles in the process. From there, the animal will dance in front of the hen. His movements resemble the Gouldian Finch, except they are a lot slower.