FW: Double-barred Finches

["Philip Veerman" <>]

Interesting (comments and news of a new book). In the course of looking at this issue, I looked at Immelmann's Australian Finches book which although now quite old (first issued in 1967) points out that this species has adapted better than most finches to human habitation. I don't think they are declining here. I have encountered them pretty evenly in my nearly 30 years in Canberra. I sure hope that Jude's birds are Double-barred Finches otherwise we have gone right off track...........

 

Philip

 

-----Original Message-----From: Geoffrey Dabb [ Sent: Monday, 9 July 2012 3:52 PM      To:
Subject: [canberrabirds] FW: Double-barred Finches

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