Crimson Finch (juvenile)

Description:

"Juveniles are generally brownish, with a crimson tinge to the upperwings and a dull-red tail. The bill is dark brownish or greyish, and the eyes are dark brown." (Birdlife Australia) However, I think this one must be quite close to getting adult male plumage.....feel free to expand on that! This is just my own guess.

Habitat:

Along the bank of Bell Creek along the Gibb River Road.

Notes:

"[Crimson Finches] rely heavily on seeding grasses for their food at most times of the year, [and therefore] are adversely affected when the grass cover is removed by fire or grazing, or by the invasion of woody weeds." (Birdlife Australia: http://www.birdlife.org.au/bird-profile/... ) Here is an interesting article on the impact of the Cane Toad (Rhinella marinus) on Crimson Finch populations: http://sciencewa.net.au/topics/environme... Cane toads have not yet arrived at Bell Creek but have already reached Gibb River Station which is nearby to the east.