The Shaft-Tail or Long-Tailed Finch (Poephila acuticauda) is a common species of estrildid finch found in Australia; also known as the Blackheart Finch, Heck’s grassfinch, Heck’s Grass Finch, and Heck’s Finch. Shaft Tail finches for sale are found in abundance and is second only to Zebra Finch in terms of population. These birds are further classified into two sub-species – the Yellow-billed variety (Poephila acuticauda) and the red-billed variety (Poephila acuticauda hecki).

Geography: Australia

Song/Call: Click to hear the song of the Shaft-Tail Finch

Size: 13-15 cm (5-6 inches) in length

Lifespan: 7 to 10 years

Sexing:  Monomorphic (difficult to visually sex). DNA testing is available for an additional fee 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: Active, comical, nosy. Breeding birds may become aggressive towards more passive species.

Breeding: The Shaft-tail can be considered an eager breeder if given the right accommodations. Because they are picky, individuals should be allowed to select their own mate from a group of at least 8-10 birds. Colony breeding is possible, however, the dominant pair(s) may discourage the breeding of those lower in the pecking order.

Diet: Classic Finch Seed, Australian Blend Goldenfeast, Millet, Dried Egg Food, Mineral Grit, live food (mealworms), greens