The tricolored parrotfinch is a species of estrildid finch found in Timor and the southern Moluccas. It has an estimated global extent of occurrence of 20,000 to 50,000 km2.
Region
Lesser Sundas and southern Maluku, Indonesia and Timor-Leste
Typical Environment
Occurs on Timor and adjacent islands, extending into the southern Moluccas including the Tanimbar and Kai groups. It favors lowland and foothill forests, forest edges, secondary growth, and bamboo thickets. The species is also found in tall grasslands, gardens, and plantations, and it tolerates moderately disturbed habitats. It is typically patchy in occurrence, concentrating where grasses and bamboo are seeding.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A small island parrotfinch, it inhabits Timor and the southern Maluku (Maluku Tenggara) islands. It often goes unnoticed in dense foliage but gives thin, high calls while foraging. Flocks can move locally following seeding grasses and may visit rice fields.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with quick, direct dashes between cover
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks, especially where grasses are seeding. Forms monogamous pairs during the breeding season, constructing a spherical grass nest in shrubs or bamboo. May associate loosely with other estrildid finches while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of thin, high-pitched tsee and tsi notes, delivered softly from cover. The song is modest and tinkling, with brief twittering phrases during social interactions.
Plumage
Compact, grass-green body with a bright red rump and tail; face shows a contrasting darker mask with subtle bluish tones. Underparts are greenish with a cleaner, brighter tone on the breast. The plumage is sleek and smooth, giving a neat, glossy appearance.
Diet
Primarily takes small grass and bamboo seeds, often plucking them directly from seedheads. Also consumes rice grains in cultivated areas and small berries when available. During breeding, it supplements with small insects and other invertebrates for protein. Foraging is delicate and deliberate, often hanging acrobatically from stems.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in seeding grasslands, edges of secondary forest, bamboo thickets, and weedy clearings. Frequently visits agricultural margins and rice fields. Stays low to mid-levels, moving between ground and lower shrubs.
