Star Finch

• ExerciseModerate

  Daily out-of-cage time and foraging toys keep them busy.

• GroomingEasy upkeep

  Fresh bath water and an occasional mist are all they ask.

• Living spaceStandard cage

  A proper cage and daily out-of-cage time fit fine in an apartment.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment5–8 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Respiratory issues · Egg binding · Obesity

The Star Finch (Neochmia ruficauda) is a softly coloured grassfinch from the tropical north of Australia, olive-green and yellow with a red face and a scattering of white 'stars' across the breast that give it its name. It weighs a mere 10-14 g and lives 5-8 years, and is regarded as one of the calmest and easiest exotic finches to keep. Star finches are peaceful, gentle and quiet, mixing well with other non-aggressive finches in a planted aviary. They are hardier and less flighty than many Australian finches, which along with their beauty makes them popular with both beginners and breeders; like all finches they are birds to watch and listen to rather than to handle. Feed a good finch seed mix and pellets with generous sprouted seed, egg food and small live food during breeding, plus fresh greens, seeding grasses, cuttlebone and clean water. A long flight cage or aviary with grass and cover suits them, and gentle warmth matters since they dislike cold and damp. With calm companions, a varied fresh diet and a sheltered, dry space these starry little finches thrive and readily raise their own young.

• How much activity does a Star Finch need?

  Moderate. Daily out-of-cage time and foraging toys keep them busy.

• How much feather care does a Star Finch need?

  Easy upkeep. Fresh bath water and an occasional mist are all they ask.

• What cage does a Star Finch need?

  Standard cage. A proper cage and daily out-of-cage time fit fine in an apartment.

• Is a Star Finch a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Star Finch live?

  5–8 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Star Finch?

  Keep an eye out for Respiratory issues, Egg binding, Obesity. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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