The Painted Finch (Emblema pictum) is found across much of central and western central Australia. It is described in the most recent Australian bird guide as 'striking' - and the authors are not wrong in this regard.
The name 'Painted' - and the second part of its scientific name - come from the red and white spots that are found on both the male and female birds. The males have a greater spread of red around the face then the females.
These picture were taken in the Desert Park in Alice Springs. The birds were gathering around a small pool of water and preaching in the branches above the water. This was the first time I had seen these birds, and if the truth be told, although I got great views of the birds it was really hard to do them justice photographically. Small dark birds against the sky, or on dappled light and shade, are always a challenge.
I would have liked to have sat with them for a while, with the lens on a tripod - but that will have to wait until next time I think!
The name 'Painted' - and the second part of its scientific name - come from the red and white spots that are found on both the male and female birds. The males have a greater spread of red around the face then the females.
These picture were taken in the Desert Park in Alice Springs. The birds were gathering around a small pool of water and preaching in the branches above the water. This was the first time I had seen these birds, and if the truth be told, although I got great views of the birds it was really hard to do them justice photographically. Small dark birds against the sky, or on dappled light and shade, are always a challenge.
I would have liked to have sat with them for a while, with the lens on a tripod - but that will have to wait until next time I think!
As ever, you can join in with WBW by clicking on the link below - and also as ever, please feel free to share the love for WBW with other bloggers! SM
Another bird I've never seen. Hopefully I'll make it to Australia someday, to see a few in person.
ReplyDeleteA very attractive little bird, Stewart. I am sure you delighted to encounter them.
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteI have a soft spot for all the finch species - I have seen these, but never managed to get the lens on them. Beautiful! YAM xx
Hi Stewart, thank you for visiting my blog. Beautiful birds that finch. Have a nice day. Greetings Caroline
ReplyDeleteYou don't have to apologize for anything about these images. The enlargements using the slide show are splendidly detailed and colorful. Very beautiful birds!
ReplyDeleteOh fantastic meeting! These finches are wonderful. What a joy.
ReplyDeleteThe only finch I met in Australia is the Red-browed Finch.
Friendship.
beautiful! I love these little finches. So attractive!
ReplyDeleteThese are beautiful photos! Lovely little birds!
ReplyDeleteThe black and white on the breast is similar to European starlings. The red colour on these birds is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteWhat a cute bird! Totally new to me...nice to see.
ReplyDeleteAll the best, Stewart!
very cool birds
ReplyDeleteBeautiful!
ReplyDeleteI like these birds. Thanks for hosting.
ReplyDeleteLovely bird shots.
ReplyDeleteVery, very attractive birds, Stewart. I recently began using my tripod (now that I learned a little about the camera...LOL!). However, your shots are perfect, as usual!...:)jp
ReplyDeleteWow, Stewart! I enlarged the images and your photographs are great! What beauties these finches are!
ReplyDeleteApologies for being absent from WBW. Hope to get back on schedule soon.
All the best from Florida.