Erythrura hyperythra
The Tawny-breasted Parrotfinch (Erythrura hyperythra) is a jewel-toned estrildid finch, measuring approximately 10-12 cm in length and weighing around 10-13 grams. Its striking plumage features a vibrant grass-green back and wings, contrasted by a brilliant cobalt-blue face and crown. A key distinguishing field mark, lending the species its name, is the rich tawny-rufous coloration adorning its breast and belly, often fading to a paler buff towards the vent. The fiery red rump and upper tail ...
This species primarily inhabits dense, moist montane forests and bamboo thickets, typically found at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 meters above sea level.
Their diet primarily consists of small grass seeds, particularly bamboo seeds, supplemented with berries and occasional small insects. They forage by gleaning seeds directly from plants.
Tawny-breasted Parrotfinches are diurnal and generally social birds, often observed in small flocks of 5-15 individuals, though larger congregations can form at abundant food sources. They are active foragers, primarily gleaning seeds from bamboo, grasses, and other vegetation, often hanging acro...
The Tawny-breasted Parrotfinch is a non-migratory resident species with a disjunct distribution across several islands in Southeast Asia. Its range spans the Philippines, including Luzon and Mindanao, and extends south through Indonesia. Significant populations are found on Sumatra, Java, Sulawes...
Least Concern
- The Tawny-breasted Parrotfinch is one of the smaller members of the parrotfinch genus *Erythrura*, known for their short, conical bills adapted for cracking seeds. - Despite its vivid colors, it can be surprisingly difficult to spot amidst the dense foliage of its montane forest habitat. - Ther...