Joe Forshaw’s comment below.. Good local spots for them are still the zoo area and the Fairbairn cork plantings. Seedy places with nearby shrub cover – hence the exotics clearing program doesn’t benefit them. My most recent encounter was a few days ago on the west side of Mugga Lane where there are nests or non-nests, maybe old, maybe new. G
From: Joe Forshaw
Sent: Monday, 9 July 2012 2:59 PM
To: Geoffrey Dabb
Subject: Double-barred Finches
Hello Geoffrey:
In the light of comments made on the chatboard about apparent declines in Double-barred Finches in Canberra, it should be noted that in our forthcoming book Grassfinches in Australia (released next month), I point out that this species in the only Australian estrildid that is increasing in numbers and expanding its range.
I doubt that it is declining here, but probably is retreating from increased intense urbanisation.
Best wishes,
Joe
