crimson finches 0 ▲ Dear Ciara 5 hours ago · Nature · hide Dear Ciara, We had some new visitors to the garden. Our 24th species of bird, if I am correct, and God—I am absolutely ecstatic. Nothing brings me more joy than to see a new species of bird has made an appearance in the garden. While I failed to capture a photo of these new visitors, I will do my best to conjure up an image for you. There were four, maybe five—only a small flock—perched in the mango tree. Red-hot chilli pepper plumage. Flecks of white like paint splatters beneath their wings. As they darted between the foliage, I listened to their sweet trilling. Have you guessed the species yet? They were crimson finches or neochmia phaeton. Perhaps the most striking of all Australian finches, crimson finches are sometimes called “blood” or “killer” finches as males can be quite aggressive towards other birds (particularly those with red plumage). We have seen this species before, darting about wetlands, but this was the first time I’ve seen them passing through the garden. They are… Commenting on Bubbles has been removed. Why? If you want to talk about this post, write to the author, use the comments on their blog if it has them, or reply with a "RE:" post on your own blog. Suggestions? feedback@bubbles.town
