Zebra Finch

A small, active finch known for its 'beep-beep' calls. Males are more colorful with orange cheek patches, while both sexes display the diagnostic black and white barred tail, which this feather represents.

Bold, high-contrast horizontal banding (barring) of alternating black and white stripes. The underside is slightly more matte, while the dorsal side shows sharp, crisp melanin-based pigmentation.

Mostly pennaceous (tightly interlocked) at the distal end to facilitate flight and display, with a small plumulaceous (fluffy) downy section at the base.

Smooth and somewhat stiff in the pennaceous region, transitioning to a very soft, cotton-like texture at the base. The surface has a slight waxy sheen.

Distinctive black and white 'zebra' barring across the horizontal axis of the feather vane; small size; rounded tip.

Arid regions, grasslands, and savannas, often near water sources. Also very common in suburban areas and as a domestic cage bird.

Native to Australia and parts of Indonesia (Timor). Found across most of the Australian continent, excluding the cold, wet coastal areas.

Primary granivore (seed-eater), serving as a significant prey species for small raptors and snakes. They are highly colonial and social birds.

Double-barred Finch (Stizoptera bichenovii), which has different patterning; however, the bold tail-specific barring of a Zebra Finch is quite unique among small finches.

Zebra Finches are model organisms in biology for studying vocal learning and memory, as their brain structures for song are similar to humans.

Good condition, though the barbs are beginning to split (separation) at the edges, likely due to natural wear or handling.