The Star Finch (Bathilda ruficauda) name likely comes from the bright, star-like white spots on the flanks of the male birds. It was known as the red-tailed finch in the early 20th century – and its scientific name, ruficauda, is Latin for "red tail," referring to the red colouration on its tail, and the old genus name Neochmia comes from the Greek neokhmos meaning "new bird". Star Finches inhabit tall grasses and reeds in grassy woodlands and savannahs near fresh water in northern Australia, feeding on seeds and insects, but also live in towns and agricultural areas like rice fields.
© BirdsImageStock