The diamond firetail is a species of estrildid finch that is endemic to Australia. It has a patchy distribution and generally occupies drier forests and grassy woodlands west of the Great Dividing Range from South East Queensland to the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. While it is a small stocky bird it is one of the largest finches in Australia. The birds are very distinctive with a black breast-band on a white breast. The flanks are black with white spots and it has a scarlet rump and a black tail.
Region
Southeast and south-central Australia
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily west of the Great Dividing Range from southeastern Queensland through New South Wales and Victoria to the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. Prefers open, dry eucalypt woodlands, acacia shrublands, and grassy woodlands with scattered trees. Frequently uses edges of farmland, lightly grazed pastures, and riparian corridors where native grasses persist. Avoids dense forests and treeless deserts, favoring mosaics of grass and shrub cover for feeding and nesting.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
Diamond firetails are striking Australian finches recognized by their bold black breast-band and spotted flanks. They often forage in small flocks and maintain strong pair bonds, with both sexes contributing to nest building. Nests are domed and frequently lined with feathers; birds may reuse old nests or nest near protective cover. Habitat loss, overgrazing, and fragmentation have contributed to regional declines.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights
Social Behavior
Outside the breeding season it forms small flocks and may join mixed groups with other finches. Pairs are typically monogamous and defend small nesting areas within suitable habitat. Nests are domed structures placed in dense shrubs or low trees and lined with feathers; both parents incubate and feed young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, high-pitched twitters and thin piping notes, with males delivering more elaborate sequences during courtship. Calls are contact-oriented and used to keep small groups coordinated while foraging.
