The Double-barred finch (Taeniopygia bichenovii), or Owl Finch, is an estrildid finch found in dry savannah, tropical (lowland) dry grassland and shrubland habitats in northern and eastern Australia. They are sometimes referred to as Bicheno’s finches, and owl finches, owing to the dark ring of feathers around their faces. The name of the species commemorates James Ebenezer Bicheno, a colonial secretary of Van Diemen’s Land appointed in September 1842. The Owl finch needs generous housing, and does best in a larger space. An aviary is great, one that’s full of branches and safe foliage. They will get along with most other Australian and Old World finches, as well as canaries, but they don’t like to be crowded. The Fawn mutation of Owl Finches for sale is light brown and softer in color than the normal Owl finch.
Geography: Australia
Song/Call: Click to hear the Owl Finch
Size: Approximately 4.33″
Life Span: Up to 10 years
Sexing: The Owl Finch is not easily sexed visually.
DNA Testing
If there is no gender option listed for a bird on our website, that particular species is ‘monomorphic’, which means we’re unable to determine gender without purchasing DNA testing. DNA testing is an additional $149 per bird to guarantee preferred gender. DNA testing may add an additional 3-6 plus weeks to estimated delivery time to allow for gender results. See our FAQs for more info.
Temperament: Social, friendly, active, peaceful. Owl finches are active little birds and curious, too. They will come check anything new added to their aviary or flight cage.
Breeding: These gregarious seed-eating birds build their nests in grass, a bush or low tree, and lay four eggs. Owl finches are generally good parents, but some can be a little too carefree with their sitting habits, or can toss the occasional baby out of the nest. It’s convenient to have other similarly sized finches nesting at the same time, such as zebra and society finches, who will generally willingly foster the eggs or babies. Owls that are good parents will also foster other species as well.
Diet: Classic Finch Seed, Australian Blend Goldenfeast, Millet, Dried Egg Food, Mineral Grit, live food (mealworms), greens
