Birdsong field guide
Red-eared Firetail
Stagonopleura oculata
A shy, elusive estrildid finch endemic to the dense coastal and forest undergrowth of Southwest Australia.
What it sounds like
A high-pitched, mournful, and drawn-out 'oeee-eeee' whistle with a rising inflection.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- It is the only member of the firetail genus endemic to Western Australia.
- Nests are large, oval structures featuring a long, downward-sloping tunnel entrance to protect against predators.
- The species is highly specialized, feeding primarily on the seeds of sedges (Gahnia) and native grasses.
- Unlike gregarious finches, it is typically seen in pairs or small family groups and is notably wary of humans.
- Populations are sensitive to fire regimes, as they require mature, dense vegetation for both nesting and foraging.
Habitat
Dense coastal heaths, paperbark swamps, and the thick understory of Jarrah and Karri forests.
Range
Southwestern corner of Western Australia.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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