The Red-faced Parrotfinch (Erythrura psittacae) also known as the Red-throated Parrotfinch, is a beautiful and vivacious aviary bird from the remote island of New Caledonia. They are always exploring their environment and, because of their high activity level, they are happiest when housed in aviaries. If kept in cages, they should have at least 3 feet of horizontal flying space.

Geography: New Caledonia

Song / Call: Click to hear the Red-faced Parrotfinch

Size / Weight: 4.5″

Sexing: Monomorphic (visually difficult to sex). However, DNA testing is available to ensure desired gender.

DNA Testing

If there is no gender option listed for a bird on our website, that particular species is ‘monomorphic’, which means we’re unable to determine gender without purchasing DNA testing. DNA testing is an additional $149 per bird to guarantee preferred gender. DNA testing may add an additional 3-6 plus weeks to estimated delivery time to allow for gender results. See our FAQs for more info.

Temperament: Red-faced Parrotfinches have a natural inquisitive nature, and seem to have the happy knack of recognizing the breeder immediately and greeting them at the aviary door. They are totally vivacious, energetic, and always on the move, be it on the ground or on the wing. They have a gentle nature, a characteristic that makes them an ideal choice, for a mixed aviary and an ideal choice for a new breeder. Water plays an enormous part in the life of a Red-faced Parrotfinch, quite apart from sustaining its life; they love jumping in and out of it. Bathing will take place a couple of times a day throughout the entire year.

Breeding: It seems appropriate to give this very active and curious bird as much space as possible. This isn’t exactly a colony bird but nor are they overly aggressive towards each other in a large, well planted aviary, even when breeding. In captivity, Red-faced Parrotfinches seem happy to accept any form of nesting accommodation, from a standard gouldian or budgie nesting box, to a wicker or Elongated Tube Box.

Lifespan: 7 years

Diet:  Goldfinch Seed Mix, Australian Blend Goldenfeast, Dried Egg Food, Mineral Grit, Greens and some fruits