Red Ears

One glance and it is easy to see where this finch received its nickname!  Commonly referred to as Waxbill’s, they originated from Africa and are typically a more social and active bird.  Like many species, if you hear a Red Ear singing, you know you have identified the male.  And these males like to belt it out!  If startling you into listening is the goal, they achieve this by starting off with an explosive note and then offsetting that with some descending notes.

Not only do these males show off during song, they are also quite the dancers during mating season.  “Shaking a tail feather” might have just been inspired by these little guys as they like to do just that, making sure the females get quite a view of their behind bobbing up and down.  Not surprising, this little ritual is often contagious sending the helpless females on their own rump shake!

Despite their agility, they are not impervious to the cold so special consideration should be taken to keep these little guys warm during the winter months.  If they reside in your aviary be sure it is located in a spot that is not too drafty. Since they prefer to be warm, when the weather is nice they are more likely to reward you with little baby Red Ears.  And, in return you can reward them with tasty snacks of millet and greens–some of their favorites!

Photo of red ear downloaded from: http://ronaldhanko-orchidhunter.blogspot.com/2013/02/birds-flowers-and-sculpture-at-bloedel.html