The red-eared parrotfinch is a species of estrildid finch endemic to Mindanao in the Philippines. It's known for its striking plumage of a green body, a blue face and the eponymous red-ear. It is found in tropical montane forest above 1,000 metres (3,280 ft) above sea level.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in tropical montane and mossy forests of Mindanao, typically above the lowland belt. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, and bamboo thickets, and may venture into clearings near intact forest. The species keeps to dense cover in the understory and midstory, often near fruiting shrubs and seeding grasses. It is patchily distributed across suitable high-elevation mountain ranges.
Altitude Range
1000–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This shy estrildid finch is confined to the highlands of Mindanao in the Philippines and is notable for its vivid blue face with a distinctive red ear patch. It often forages quietly in bamboo and dense understory, making it easy to overlook. Pairs or small groups may join mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Its preference for montane habitats helps buffer it from some lowland deforestation pressures.
Temperament
solitary and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Most often seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks along forest margins. Nests are typically well-hidden domed structures in dense vegetation, with both sexes involved in nesting duties. Generally monogamous during the breeding season and maintains a small territory around the nest site.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Soft, thin, high-pitched tseep and tsee notes delivered at intervals from cover. Song is a gentle series of tinkling trills and chips rather than a loud broadcast, aiding in discreet communication in dense foliage.
