Emblema modestum
Measuring approximately 11-12 cm in length and weighing 10-14 grams, the Plum-headed Finch (*Emblema modestum*) is a small, elegant estrildid finch native to eastern Australia. Its most distinctive field mark is the rich 'plum' red coloration on its forehead and crown, which contrasts strikingly with its olive-brown upperparts and clean white underparts, often with faint barring on the flanks. This subtle sexual dimorphism sees males typically displaying a brighter, more extensive red cap, wh...
Primarily inhabits grassy woodlands, open forests, and savannahs, often near permanent water sources. It prefers areas with a mosaic of dense vegetation for nesting and open grassy patches for foraging, typically found at low to moderate elevations.
The diet consists predominantly of small grass seeds, which it forages from the ground, supplemented by small insects, particularly during the breeding season.
A diurnal species, the Plum-headed Finch typically forages on the ground in small flocks outside of the breeding season, roosting communally in dense shrubs or reeds at night. Its foraging strategy involves meticulously gleaning fallen grass seeds and small insects from the ground. During the bre...
The Plum-headed Finch is endemic to eastern Australia, with its primary breeding range extending from the Cape York Peninsula in Queensland southwards to northern New South Wales. Its distribution spans inland parts of Queensland and New South Wales, generally east of the Great Dividing Range, th...
Least Concern
- The scientific name 'modestum' means 'modest' in Latin, referring to its relatively plain body compared to its vibrant head. - It is sometimes known as the 'Cherry Finch' due to the distinctive red patch on its head. - Plum-headed Finches are highly gregarious outside the breeding season, formi...