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Erythrura

(Genus)

Overview

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Parrotfinches are small, colorful birds belonging to the genus Erythrura in the family Estrildidae, the estrildid finches. They occur from South-east Asia to New Guinea, northern Australia and many Pacific Islands. They inhabit forest, bamboo thickets and grassland and some can be found in man-made habitats such as farmland, parks and gardens. Several species are commonly kept as cagebirds.

They are 9 to 15 cm long. The plumage is usually mainly green. Most species have blue or red markings on the head and a red rump and tail. The tail is pointed and often fairly long.

Seeds, especially those of grasses, comprise the bulk of the diet. Some parrotfinches also feed on fruit and small insects. Many species forage in flocks, keeping in contact with high-pitched calls.

Three species, the Green-faced, Royal and Pink-billed Parrotfinches, are classed as vulnerable to extinction because of habitat loss and degradation.

Species List

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There are 10-12 species of parrotfinch. The Gouldian Finch (Chloebia gouldiae or Erythrura gouldiae) is also often included in this genus.

Photos

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Taxonomy

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The Genus Erythrura is further organized into finer groupings including:

References

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Sources

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Last Revised: September 22, 2009
2009/09/22 18:09:17