Shaft-Tail Finch

The Shaft Tail Finch (Poephila acuticauda), also known as the Long Tailed Grassfinch, is an elegant Australian grassfinch distinguished by its long, fine, pointed central tail feathers that give it an unusually graceful silhouette. Native to northern Australia, Shaft Tail Finches feature soft pastel plumage in shades of gray, fawn, and buff with a striking black throat patch and vivid orange-red or yellow bill depending on the subspecies. Their serene appearance and peaceful nature make them a favorite among Australian finch enthusiasts.

Temperament and Housing

Shaft Tail Finches are calm, peaceful birds well-suited to mixed finch aviaries with other Australian grassfinches of similar temperament. They do best in spacious outdoor aviaries with natural vegetation where they can exhibit natural behavior. They are cold-tolerant to a degree but should be protected from frost.

Care and Breeding

Feed quality finch seed mix with regular sprouted seeds, fresh greens, egg food, and daily water. Livefood during breeding improves results. Shaft Tail Finches nest in natural vegetation or half-open nest baskets. They are generally reliable breeders in suitable conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are they called Shaft Tail Finches?

The name refers to the distinctive long, narrow, pointed central tail feathers (the ‘shafts’) that give the bird its characteristic elegant silhouette.

Are Shaft Tail Finches good for mixed aviaries?

Excellent aviary birds. Their peaceful temperament makes them ideal companions for other calm Australian grassfinch species like Zebra Finches and Owl Finches.

What is the difference between red-billed and yellow-billed Shaft Tails?

These represent two recognized subspecies. The red-billed form (P. a. acuticauda) has an orange-red bill while the yellow-billed form (P. a. hecki) has a yellow bill. Both have identical care requirements.

Related Pages

Finchies category page  |  Zebra Finch  |  Owl Finch

Learn more about the Shaft Tail Finch